When your outgo exceeds your income, the upshot may be your downfall.
The policeman must be a minister, a social worker, a diplomat, a tough guy, and a gentleman. And, of course, he'd have to be a genius... For he will have to feed a family on a policeman's salary.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the multifaceted role of a policeman, highlighting the diverse skills and qualities required for the job amidst financial challenges.
In this quote, Paul Harvey illustrates the complex and demanding nature of police work, which goes beyond mere law enforcement. He notes that a good policeman embodies various roles such as a minister, social worker, diplomat, and gentleman, implying that the profession requires empathy, negotiation skills, toughness, and intelligence. Furthermore, the mention of needing to support a family on a policeman's salary underscores the societal challenges and the dedication required in this critical role.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a community meeting discussing law enforcement, this quote was used to highlight the complexities of police work.
More from Paul Harvey
All quotes →We've drifted away from being fishers of men to being keepers of the aquarium.
One vote. That's a big weapon you have there, Mister. In 1948, just one additional vote in each precinct would have elected Dewey. In 1960, one vote in each precinct in Illinois would have elected Nixon. One vote.
In times like these, it helps to recall that there have always been times like these.
I've never seen a monument erected to a pessimist.
Oh, things always get better. Tomorrow will always be better. Just think about it . . . is there any time in history in which you'd rather live than now?
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