What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight - it's the size of the fight in the dog.
Interpretation
The determination and spirit one possesses is more important than their physical size or strength.
This quote emphasizes that true strength lies in one's determination and inner resolve, rather than in external attributes like size or strength. It suggests that a smaller or weaker individual can triumph over larger opponents if they possess a greater will to fight and succeed. Essentially, success often comes down to the inner strength and tenacity of an individual rather than their physical limitations.
In practice
In a motivational speech about overcoming adversity.
If a man's associates find him guilty of being phony, if they find that he lacks forthright integrity, he will fail. His teachings and actions must square with each other. The first great need, therefore, is integrity and high purpose.
The libraries of America are and must ever remain the home of free and inquiring minds. To them, our citizens-of all ages and races, of all creeds and persuasions-must be able to turn with clear confidence that there they can freely seek the whole truth, unvarnished by fashion and uncompromised by expediency.
You don't lead by hitting people over the head - that's assault, not leadership.
When pressure mounts and strain increases everyone begins to show the weaknesses in his makeup. It is up to the Commander to conceal his: above all to conceal doubt, fear, and distrust.
Some years ago I became president of Columbia University and learned within 24 hours to be ready to speak at the drop of a hat, and I learned something more, the trustees were expected to be ready to speak at the passing of the hat.
I hate war as only a soldier who has lived it can, only as one who has seen its brutality, its futility, its stupidity.
Brother, if you would enter that Province, you must go forward on your knees.
I had to experience how someone beside me suddenly falls over and is dead and the bullet has hit him squarely. I had to experience that quite directly. I wanted it. I'm therefore not a pacifist at all - or am I?
I do not kill with my gun; He who kills with his gun has forgotten the face of his father. I kill with my heart.
I know it's easier to portray a world filled with cynicism and anger, where problems are solved with violence...It's an easy out. What's a whole lot tougher is to offer alternatives, to present other ways conflicts can be resolved, and to show you can have a positive impact on your world. To do that, you have to put yourself out on a limb, take chances, and run the risk of being called a do-gooder.
If we must fall, we should boldly meet our fate.
We've been blessed with the opportunity to stand for something - for liberty and freedom and fairness. And these are things worth fighting for, worth devoting our lives to.
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