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
I understand a ship to be made for the carrying and preservation of the cargo, and so long as the ship can be saved, with the cargo, it should never be abandoned. This Union likewise should never be abandoned unless it fails and the possibility of its preservation shall cease to exist, without throwing passengers and cargo overboard.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of preserving unity and shared values, much like a ship's duty to its cargo.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln draws a parallel between a ship and the Union, suggesting that just as a ship is meant to carry and safeguard its cargo, the Union must be preserved and protected. He indicates that the Union should not be abandoned lightly, especially not in times of turmoil, unless the possibility of its preservation truly ceases to exist. Lincoln's words reflect a deep commitment to unity and the belief that even in challenging times, efforts should be made to keep the collective intact rather than sacrificing it for temporary relief.
Themes
UnionPreservationUnitySacrificeCargoShip
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of national unity during times of crisis.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, 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.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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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.
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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.
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