Those who do nothing are inviting shame as well as violence. Those who act boldly are recognizing right as well as reality.
Interpretation
Taking action in the face of fear or uncertainty is a sign of bravery and moral clarity.
This quote by John F. Kennedy highlights the importance of taking action rather than remaining passive. It suggests that inaction not only leads to shame but also invites potential harm, whereas bold actions reflect a commitment to what is right and an acknowledgment of the truth of a situation. By recognizing and confronting challenges, individuals demonstrate integrity and courage.
In practice
In a motivational speech about taking charge of one's life and facing fears.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
Better to have beasts that let themselves be killed than men who run away.
The role of citizen in our democracy does not end with your vote.
People couldn't understand why my mama would have this blind kid out doing things like cutting wood for the fire. But her thing was: He may be blind, but he ain't stupid.
to that piece in each of us that refuses to be silent.
Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting for separation. We are fighting for recognition as free humans in this society.
I have a fierce will to live. Others fight a little, then lose hope. Still others - and I am one of those - never give up. We fight and fight and fight. We fight no matter the cost of battle, the losses we take, the improbability of success. We fight to the very end.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.