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
I am very glad indeed to see you to-night, and yet I will not say I thank you for this call, but I do most sincerely thank Almighty God for the occasion on which you have called.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The speaker expresses gratitude for the meeting while acknowledging a higher power's role in bringing people together.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln conveys his appreciation for the visit from another person, but he emphasizes that his gratitude is directed not merely toward the individual, but rather to Almighty God for providing the opportunity for such a gathering. This reflects Lincoln's humility and the importance he places on divine providence in human interactions and relationships.
Themes
GratitudeMeetingDivineRelationshipAppreciation
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech at a community gathering, one might say this quote to express gratitude for the shared moments.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →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.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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