Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee.
George WashingtonRead
A government is like fire, a handy servant, but a dangerous master.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Government can be beneficial when controlled, but can also become harmful if it gains too much power.
This quote by George Washington illustrates the dual nature of government, comparing it to fire: it can be a useful tool that serves society, yet if left unchecked, it can become tyrannical and destructive. Washington emphasizes the importance of vigilance and balance in governance, advocating for a system that serves the people rather than enslaves them.
Themes
GovernmentPowerServantMasterControl
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about civil liberties, one might say, 'Remember, a government is like fire, a handy servant, but a dangerous master.'
More from George Washington
All quotes βIf, in the opinion of the people, the distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.
George WashingtonRead
The duty of holding a Neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity toward other Nations.
George WashingtonRead
We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency. We expected to encounter many wants and distressed we must bear the present evils and fortitude
George WashingtonRead
What is most important of this grand experiment, the United States? Not the election of the first president but the election of its second president. The peaceful transition of power is what will separate this country from every other country in the world.
George WashingtonRead
Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.
George WashingtonRead
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When you know your name, you should hang on to it, for unless it is noted down and remembered, it will die when you do.
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Societies can be sunk by the weight of buried ugliness.
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