QuoteProject
My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned, not bought.
Margaret Chase Smith
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Public service requires dedication to people and nation, valuing courtesy, constructive criticism, and earned honor.

This quote emphasizes that public service goes beyond mere efficiency and honesty; it demands a deep commitment to the well-being of citizens and the nation. Margaret Chase Smith highlights the importance of treating everyone with respect, welcoming constructive feedback, challenging negativity, and understanding that true honor is achieved through integrity rather than financial means.

Themes

Public ServiceDedicationHonorCourtesyConstructive Criticism

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about community engagement.

More from Margaret Chase Smith

I do not want to see the Republican party ride to political victory on the Four Horsemen of Calumny-fear, ignorance, bigotry and smear.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
The Senate has been debased to the level of a forum of hate and character assassination sheltered by the shield of congressional immunity.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
One of the basic causes for all the trouble in the world today is that people talk too much and think too little. They act impulsively without thinking. I always try to think before I talk.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Smears are not only to be expected but fought. Honor is to be earned, not bought.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration. Constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought.
Margaret Chase SmithRead
Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk.
Margaret Chase SmithRead

Similar quotes

Thank God we have the example of Martin Luther King, Jr. People need role models. They need to see examples of people in peoples' lives, and that's why it's so important not just to commemorate his life, but to study and try to live by the principles of that life.
Coretta Scott KingRead
A military without political training is a potential criminal.
Thomas SankaraRead
I was always an independent, even when I had partners.
Samuel GoldwynRead
If we reduce the number of employees for better short-term financial results, employee morale will decrease. I sincerely doubt employees who fear that they may be laid off will be able to develop software titles that could impress people around the world.
Satoru IwataRead
Surround yourself with smart, dedicated people - to build something isn't a one-man show. It's more important to have smart people who really believe in what you're doing than really experienced people who may not share your dream.
Niklas ZennstromRead
I never dreamed about one day becoming Secretary of State. It's not that I was modest; it's just that I had never seen a Secretary of State in a skirt.
Madeleine AlbrightRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Margaret Chase Smith | QuoteProject