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At my age, and in my circumstances, what sinister object, or personal emolument had I to seek after, in this life? The growing infirmities of age and the increasing love of retirement, daily confirm my decided predilection for domestic life: and the great Searcher of human hearts is my witness, that I have no wish, which aspires beyond the humble and happy lot of living and dying a private citizen on my own farm.
George Washington
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects George Washington's contentment with a simple, private life, free from ambition for power or wealth.

George Washington expresses a deep sense of fulfillment in his current stage of life. At his age, he finds no desire for power or wealth, instead cherishing the peacefulness of domestic life and the joys of retirement. He acknowledges the natural inclination towards simplicity and contentment, valuing the humble existence of a private citizen over the chaotic pursuits of public life.

Themes

ContentmentDomestic LifeSimplicityRetirementHumilityHappiness

In practice

Example use cases

Quote can be used in a retirement speech to emphasize the joys of a simple life.

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