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
As an individual who undertakes to live by borrowing, soon finds his original means devoured by interest, and next no one left to borrow from - so must it be with a government.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Living beyond one's means can lead to ruin, both for individuals and governments.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln highlights the dangers of living beyond one's financial capabilities. He compares an individual who borrows excessively and becomes overwhelmed by debt to a government that similarly overextends itself financially. This serves as a cautionary reminder that unsustainable borrowing can deplete resources and lead to a situation where there are no options left for recovery.
Themes
DebtBorrowingGovernmentEconomyFinancial Responsibility
In practice
Example use cases
During a financial literacy seminar, to emphasize the importance of managing debt responsibly.
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.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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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.
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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.
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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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