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
Public opinion in this country is everything.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Public opinion plays a crucial role in shaping societal norms and governance.
Abraham Lincoln's quote emphasizes the importance of public opinion in a democracy. It suggests that the beliefs and attitudes of the populace are fundamental in guiding the actions of leaders and influencing decisions that impact society as a whole.
Themes
Public OpinionDemocracySocietyGovernanceLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
During a community meeting, this quote could be used to highlight the importance of listening to constituents.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, 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.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
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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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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It's ironic that in our culture everyone's biggest complaint is about not having enough time; yet nothing terrifies us more than the thought of eternity.
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