I am only a child. Yet I know that if all the money spent on war was spent on ending poverty and finding environmental answers, what a wonderful place this would be.
Severn Cullis-SuzukiRead
In school you teach us not to fight with others, to work things out, to respect others, to clean up our mess, not to hurt other creatures, to share, not be greedy. Then why do you go out and do the things you tell us not to do? You grownups say you love us, but I challenge you, please, to make your actions reflect your words.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the hypocrisy of adults who preach values but fail to practice them.
Severn Cullis-Suzuki's quote highlights the contradiction between the values taught to children and the actions exhibited by adults. It calls for introspection and accountability among grownups to ensure that their behaviors align with the moral lessons they impart to younger generations, particularly emphasizing respect, kindness, and responsibility towards others and the environment.
Themes
HypocrisyValuesEducationAccountabilityResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of leading by example for children.
More from Severn Cullis-Suzuki
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In my life, I have dreamt of seeing the great herds of wild animals, jungles and rainforests full of birds and butterflies, but now I wonder if they will even exist for my children to see.
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