If the provisions of the Constitution be not upheld when they pinch as well as when they comfort, they may as well be abandoned.
George SutherlandRead
For the saddest epitaph which can be carved in memory of a vanished freedom is that it was lost because its possessors failed to stretch forth a saving hand while there was still time.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the consequences of inaction regarding the preservation of freedom, suggesting that it is lost when those who possess it do not take action to protect it.
George Sutherland's quote serves as a poignant reminder that freedom is fragile and requires active participation to be maintained. When people take their freedom for granted and fail to respond to threats or challenges, they risk losing it entirely. This highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive engagement in the face of encroaching limitations on liberty.
In practice
A call to action in a speech about civic duty and the importance of defending civil liberties.
If the provisions of the Constitution be not upheld when they pinch as well as when they comfort, they may as well be abandoned.
I hold that without truth and nonviolence there can be nothing but destruction of humanity.
As for politics, I’m an anarchist. I hate governments and rules and fetters. Can’t stand caged animals. People must be free.
Our duty is to be useful, not according to our desires but according to our powers.
For every man the world is as fresh as it was at the first day, and as full of untold novelties for him who has the eyes to see them.
Strike the dog dead, it's but a critic!
I got nothing against the honest cop on the beat. You just have them transferred someplace where they can't do you any harm. But don't ever talk to me about the honor of police captains or judges. If they couldn't be bought they wouldn't have the job.
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