After this time I surpassed all others in authority, but I had no more power than the others who were also my colleagues in office.
AugustusRead
May it be my privilege to have the happiness of establishing the commonwealth on a firm and secure basis and thus enjoy the reward which I desire, but only if I may be called the author of the best possible government; and bear with me the hope when I die that the foundations which I have laid for its future government, will stand firm and stable.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a desire to create a strong government for the common good and hopes for its lasting stability.
In this quote, Augustus reflects on the honor of establishing a just and effective government aimed at benefiting the community. He expresses a deep sense of responsibility and ambition, aspiring to be recognized as the creator of a solid framework for governance that will endure, ensuring the prosperity and happiness of future generations.
In practice
This quote can be used during a speech to emphasize the importance of good governance.
After this time I surpassed all others in authority, but I had no more power than the others who were also my colleagues in office.
Young men, listen to an old man to whom old men listened when he was young.
Only that which is well done is quickly done.
Better a cautious commander, and not a rash one.
If I have played my part well, clap your hands, and dismiss me with applause from the stage.
I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.
If you don't have a seat at the table, you're probably on the menu.
...the best leaders are servant leaders - they serve those they lead.
I cannot penetrate the soul of Arafat. I cannot know in advance whether, behind all the masks, he's the kind of leader who can reach an agreement or whether he wants to be the Moses of the Palestinians, staying in front of the river and not crossing into the promised land.
By blood a king, in heart a clown.
There is small risk a general will be regarded with contempt by those he leads, if, whatever he may have to preach, he shows himself best able to perform.
When I was defense minister, I was very popular, and now that I'm president, I'm unpopular because I'm trying to make peace. It's much easier to make war and get trophies.
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