Let us march immediately, and never lay down our arms until we obtain our independence.
Nathan HaleRead
I am not influenced by the expectation of promotion or pecuniary reward. I wish to be useful, and every kind of service necessary for the public good, becomes honorable by being necessary. If the exigencies of my country demand a peculiar service, its claim to perform that service are imperious.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes selfless service to the public good over personal gain or recognition.
Nathan Hale's quote highlights the importance of prioritizing the needs of others and contributing to society without seeking personal rewards. He asserts that true honor comes from being useful and responding to the demands of one's country, particularly in times of need, suggesting that one’s motivation should stem from a sense of duty rather than the pursuit of promotion or monetary benefits.
Themes
ServicePublic GoodSelflessnessDutyHonor
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about volunteerism, one might quote this to inspire others to serve their communities.
More from Nathan Hale
All quotes →I greatly fear some of America's greatest and most dangerous enemies are such as think themselves her best friends.
Nathan HaleRead
I wish to be useful, and every kind of service necessary to the public good becomes honorable by being necessary.
Nathan HaleRead
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