I have ever deemed it more honorable and more profitable, too, to set a good example than to follow a bad one.
Interpretation
Setting a positive example is more beneficial and honorable than following a negative one.
This quote by Thomas Jefferson emphasizes the importance of leading by example. It suggests that individuals should aspire to demonstrate good behavior and choices, as these can inspire others to act similarly, rather than simply conforming to negative influences. It highlights the value of integrity and the impact of personal conduct on society.
In practice
In a speech about leadership at a community event.
The firmness with which the (American) people have withstood the... abuses of the press, the discernment they have manifested between truth and falsehood, show that they may safely be trusted to hear everything true and false and to form a correct judgment between them.
I, place economy among the first & most important republican virtues, & public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared
βWe must make our choice between economy and liberty or confusion and servitude...If we run into such debts, we must be taxed in our meat and drink, in our necessities and comforts, in our labor and in our amusements...if we can prevent the government from wasting the labor of the people, under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy.
Very many and very meritorious were the worthy patriots who assisted in bringing back our government to its republican tack. To preserve it in that, will require unremitting vigilance.
A nation, as a society, forms a moral person, and every member of it is personally responsible for his society.
Timid men prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty.
Never trust a man who has not a single redeeming vice.
Elves and Dragons! Cabbages and potatoes are better for me and you. Don't go getting mixed up in the business of your betters, or you'll land in trouble too big for you. ~Hamfast Gamgee (the Gaffer)
You can close your eyes to the things you don't want to see, but you can't close your heart to the things you don't want to feel.
He who is false to the present duty breaks a thread in the loom, and you will see the effect when the weaving of a life-time is unraveled.
Many of us worry about the situation of the world . . . We need to remain calm, to see clearly. Meditation is a means to be aware, and to try to help.
I tend to feel if people say they're going to do something, they will, if given the chance.
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