I never meet a ragged boy in the street without feeling that i may owe him a salute, for I know not what possibilities may be buttoned up under his coat.
Interpretation
The quote expresses the idea that every person, regardless of their appearance or circumstances, has untapped potential and deserves respect.
James A. Garfield's quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inherent possibilities within each individual, irrespective of their socio-economic status or outward appearance. The 'ragged boy' symbolizes those who may seem disadvantaged or marginalized, yet carry within them unique talents, aspirations, and stories. This thought encourages us to treat everyone with dignity, as we cannot judge their potential based solely on their external circumstances.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire respect for everyone around us.
Statistical science is indispensable to modern statesmanship. In legislation as in physical science it is beginning to be understood that we can control terrestrial forces only by obeying their laws. The legislator must formulate in his statutes not only the national will, but also those great laws of social life revealed by statistics.
I am trying to do two things: dare to be a radical and not a fool, which is a matter of no small difficulty.
Justice and goodwill will outlast passion.
Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption.
If the power to do hard work is not a skill, it's the best possible substitute for it.
Next in importance to freedom and justice is popular education, without which neither freedom nor justice can be permanently maintained.
The exercise of reason is not available only to specialists; it is accessible to everyone.
He is armed without who is innocent within, be this thy screen, and this thy wall of brass.
The busy man is never wise and the wise man is never busy.
I was raised to sense what someone wanted me to be and be that kind of person. It took me a long time not to judge myself through someone else's eyes.
Most people can't think, most of the remainder won't think, and the small fraction who do think mostly can't do it very well.
It took me less than half a lifetime to realize that regret is one of the few guaranteed certainties. Sooner or later everything is touched by it, despite our naive and senseless hope that just this time we will be spared its cold hand on our heart.
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