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
in times like the present, men should utter nothing for which they would not willingly be responsible through time and eternity.
Interpretation
We should speak carefully and take responsibility for our words, recognizing their lasting impact.
Abraham Lincoln's quote emphasizes the importance of accountability in our speech, particularly during challenging times. It suggests that individuals should be mindful of the words they choose to utter, ensuring that they are willing to stand by those words forever, as they can have significant consequences that extend beyond the immediate moment.
In practice
During a public speaking event focusing on ethical communication.
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.
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.
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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.
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.
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.
Who can estimate the real wealth that inheres in a fine character. . . . How base and mean money and huge estates look in comparison. All other things fade before it. Its touch is like magic to win friendship, influence, power. Can you afford to chill, to discourage, to crush out of your life this sweet, sensitive plant, which would flower in your nature and give added glory to your life, for the sake of a few dollars, a little questionable fame?
I never expect to see a perfect work from an imperfect man.
Advice is a dangerous gift, even from the wise to the wise, and all courses may run ill.
A fairly bright boy is far more intelligent and far better company than the average adult.
It will not do merely to listen to great principles. You must apply them in the practical field, turn them into constant practice. What will be the good of cramming the high - sounding dicta of the scriptures? You have first to grasp the teachings of the Shastras, and then to work them out in practical life. Do you understand? This is called practical religion.
The things you get fired for when youβre young are the same things that you get lifetime achievement awards for when youβre old.
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