I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
I go to assume a task more difficult than that which devolved upon Washington. Unless the great God, who assisted him, shall be with me and aid me, I must fail; but if the same omniscient mind and almighty arm that directed and protected him shall guide and support me, I shall not fail - I shall succeed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Lincoln emphasizes the weight of leadership and the reliance on divine guidance for success.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln reflects on the tremendous responsibilities of leadership, comparing his own challenges to those faced by George Washington. He acknowledges his dependence on divine support, suggesting that with guidance from a higher power, he believes he can succeed in fulfilling his duties, echoing themes of faith and perseverance in leadership.
Themes
LeadershipSuccessFaithGuidanceResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire future leaders.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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