Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee.
George WashingtonRead
Speak not injurious words neither in jest nor earnest; scoff at none, although they give occasion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote advises against speaking harmful words, whether jokingly or seriously, and promotes respect for others even when provoked.
George Washington's quote underscores the importance of maintaining respect in our words and interactions with others. It warns against the harm that can come from injurious language, whether said in jest or seriousness, and encourages us to rise above provocations without resorting to ridicule or disdain. This reflects a broader principle of civility and the impact of our speech on human interactions.
Themes
WordsRespectCivilityCommunicationHumor
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting about workplace culture, you might use this quote to advocate for respectful communication.
More from George Washington
All quotes →If, in the opinion of the people, the distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.
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The duty of holding a Neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity toward other Nations.
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We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency. We expected to encounter many wants and distressed we must bear the present evils and fortitude
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What is most important of this grand experiment, the United States? Not the election of the first president but the election of its second president. The peaceful transition of power is what will separate this country from every other country in the world.
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Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.
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