I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.
Interpretation
True character is revealed when a person is given power and authority.
This quote by Abraham Lincoln suggests that while many can endure challenges and difficulties, it is the behavior exhibited when one is in a position of power that truly reflects their character. Power often reveals an individual's true nature, highlighting virtues or vices that may have been hidden in times of adversity.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about leadership qualities.
I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Study the teachings of the pine tree, the bamboo, and the plum blossom. The pine is evergreen, firmly rooted, and venerable. The bamboo is strong, resilient, unbreakable. The plum blossom is hardy, fragrant, and elegant.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway.
Iβve often been accused of being too emotional and sentimental, but I believe in honest sentiment, and the need to purge ourselves at certain times, which is ancient. Men would live at least five or six more years and not have ulcers if they could cry better.
I have met with some of them - very honest fellows, who, with all their stupidity, had a kind of intelligence and an upright good sense, which cannot be the characteristics of fools.
Honesty with ourselves & others gets us sober, but it is tolerance that keeps us that way.
She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it).
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