My patriotism and my conscience required me to support it and to engage in the debate over whether and how to fight it.
Interpretation
John McCain emphasizes the moral duty of supporting one's country while questioning the methods used in conflict.
In this quote, John McCain expresses the idea that true patriotism goes beyond blind support for one's country; it involves engaging in thoughtful debate about the nation's actions, especially in matters of war. He highlights the importance of conscience alongside patriotism, suggesting that citizens should critically evaluate the decisions made by their leaders in the context of national security and ethics.
In practice
This quote can be used during a discussion about national ethics and the role of citizens in government decisions.
Giap was a master of logistics, but his reputation rests on more than that. His victories were achieved by a patient strategy that he and Ho Chi Minh were convinced would succeed - an unwavering resolve to suffer immense casualties and the near total destruction of their country to defeat any adversary, no matter how powerful.
Whenever America sends its citizens into harm's way, it must do so with eyes wide open.
For decades we have been living lives of abundance, with little regard for our natural resources or global health. But we are now facing hard choices in our energy policy. Future generations - my children and grandchildren, along with yours - will have to live with the decisions we make today. And so it is time for us to make some tough and - hopefully - smart choices regarding our energy use and production before it is too late.
We need a free press. We must have it. It's vital.
I appreciate our government's determination to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the Bytyqi brothers, which Serbia's Interior Minister has rightly called 'an exceptionally serious crime,' and hope the Serbian government's pledge of full cooperation... is matched by a final accounting of their murder.
What is most troubling about Mr. Putin's aggression in Crimea is that it reflects a growing disregard for America's credibility in the world. That has emboldened other aggressive actors - from Chinese nationalists to Al Qaeda terrorists and Iranian theocrats.
So many people grew up with challenges, as I did. There weren't always happy things happening to me or around me. But when you look at the core of goodness within yourself - at the optimism and hope - you realize it comes from the environment you grew up in.
Over the years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our borders. The only amount of land we have ever asked for in return is enough to bury those that did not return.
Never turn your back on fear. It should always be in front of you, like a thing that might have to be killed.
Courage is the greatest of all virtues, because if you haven't courage, you may not have an opportunity to use any of the others.
Controversial means somebody who makes people think. And if you are afraid of people who will be against you, you might as well stay home and do nothing.
I am anchored on a resolve you cannot shake. My heart, my conscience shall dispose of my hand - they only. Know this at last.
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