Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
Ronald ReaganRead
We are a nation that has a government-not the other way around. And that makes us special among the nations of the earth.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of a government that serves the people and not the reverse.
Ronald Reagan's quote reflects the foundational principle of democracy, where the government derives its power from the consent of the governed. It highlights the unique position of the United States, illustrating how a government that is accountable to its citizens is a distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other nations.
In practice
Use this quote in a speech about the importance of democratic values.
Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.
Our status as a free society and world power is not based on brute strength. When we've taken up arms, it has been for the defense of freedom for ourselves and for other peaceful nations who needed our help. But now, faced with the development of weapons with immense destructive power, we've no choice but to maintain ready defense forces that are second to none. Yes, the cost is high, but the price of neglect would be infinitely higher.
I'm spending more time at this library in four days than I did at the Eureka College Library in four years.
I'm not a politician by profession. I am a citizen who decided I had to be personally involved in order to stand up for my own values and beliefs. My candidacy is based on my record, and for that matter, my entire life.
My fellow citizens, our nation is poised for greatness. We must do what we know is right, and do it with all our might. Let history say of us: "These were golden years - when the American Revolution was reborn, when freedom gained new life, and America reached for her best."
We must have faith in the people of this country and faith in our principles.
Purity of morals [is] the only sure foundation of public happiness in any country.
It is the fight alone that pleases us, not the victory.
The fear of punishment, the desire of reward, the sense of duty, are all useful arguments, in their way, to persuade people to holiness. But they are all weak and powerless, until a person loves Christ.
Our countrymen have all the folly of the ass and all the passiveness of the sheep.
When holy and devout religious men are at their beads, 'tis hard to draw them thence; so sweet is zealous contemplation.
I can see the sun, but even if I cannot see the sun, I know that it exists. And to know that the sun is there - that is living.
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