In my opinion, any future defense secretary who advises the president to again send a big American land army into Asia or into the Middle East or Africa should 'have his head examined,' as General MacArthur so delicately put it.
Robert M. GatesRead
You all know the reasons which have impelled me to renounce the throne. But I want you to understand that in making up my mind I did not forget the country or the empire, which, as Prince of Wales and lately as King, I have for twenty-five years tried to serve.
Interpretation
The quote reflects the personal sacrifice made for the greater good of the country.
In this quote, King Edward VIII expresses his deep sense of responsibility towards his country while explaining his decision to renounce the throne. He emphasizes that his choice was not made lightly or without consideration for the well-being of the empire he had dedicated himself to for over two decades, highlighting the conflicts between personal desires and public duties.
In practice
In a speech about public service, one might quote this to emphasize the sacrifices leaders must make.
In my opinion, any future defense secretary who advises the president to again send a big American land army into Asia or into the Middle East or Africa should 'have his head examined,' as General MacArthur so delicately put it.
Hold on to your own ideal. . . . Above all, never attempt to guide or rule others, or, as the Yankees say, "boss" others. Be the servant of all.
Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.
Nelson Mandela, a better man, not a bitter man, made our world a better place in which to live. His life and leadership exemplify the highest courage, dignity, and dedication to human liberation.
Victims recite problems. Leaders develop solutions. That might seem like common sense, but common sense is rarely common practice.
I started off life at Pixar with interesting technical problems. But as time has moved on, I found that the social and management problem was far more complex and interesting.
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