The politician's promises of yesterday are the taxes of today.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
Just when we most need to be clearheaded, in order to face the hard facts before us, there is all too frequently a very real inclination to give way to dangerous tendencies merely as an escape from realities.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote warns against avoiding reality during challenging times, suggesting that clarity of thought is crucial.
William Lyon Mackenzie King highlights the human tendency to escape from harsh truths when faced with difficult situations. Instead of confronting the facts with a clear mind, people may be tempted to indulge in denial or distraction, which can lead to dangerous outcomes. The message emphasizes the importance of maintaining clarity and courage in the face of adversity.
Themes
ClarityRealityAdversityDenialEscape
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speaker could use this quote to encourage resilience in tough times during a seminar.
More from William Lyon Mackenzie King
All quotes →It is what we prevent, rather than what we do that counts most in Government.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
Far more has been accomplished for the welfare and progress of mankind by preventing bad actions than by doing good ones.
William Lyon Mackenzie KingRead
Similar quotes
A man who has humility will have acquired in the last reaches of his beliefs the saving doubt of his own certainty.
Walter LippmannRead
In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.
Lao TzuRead
When my enemies stop hissing, I shall know I'm slipping.
Maria CallasRead
The easiest way to solve a problem is to deny it exists.
Isaac AsimovRead
It is one of the oldest maxims of moral prudence: Do not, by aspiring to what is impracticable, lose the opportunity of doing the good you can effect!
William GodwinRead
As a surgeon you have to have a controlled arrogance. If it's uncontrolled, you kill people, but you have to be pretty arrogant to saw through a person's chest, take out their heart and believe you can fix it. Then, when you succeed and the patient survives, you pray, because it's only by the grace of God that you get there.
Mehmet OzRead