Few women, I fear, have had such reason as I have to think the long sad years of youth were worth living for the sake of middle age.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that the struggles of youth can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful middle age.
Eisenhower reflects on his life, acknowledging the difficult times he experienced during his youth but ultimately expressing that these challenges were necessary for the richer, more rewarding experience of middle age. It implies that enduring hardships can provide valuable lessons and perspectives that enhance future enjoyment and fulfillment.
In practice
This quote could be used during a graduation speech to encourage students facing challenges.
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.
I always knew looking back on my tears would bring me laughter, but I never knew looking back on my laughter would make me cry.
If I had to define life in a single phrase, I should clearly express my thought of throwing into relief one characteristic which, in my opinion, sharply differentiates biological science. I should say: life is creation.
After all, I long to be in America again, nay, if I can go home to return no more to Europe, it seems to me that I shall ever enjoy more peace of mind, and even Physical comfort than I can meet with in any portion of the world beside.
I feel that my whole life is a contribution.
The hurrier I go, the behinder I get.
Driving a motorcycle is like flying. All your senses are alive. When I ride through Beverly Hills in the early morning, and all the sprinklers have turned off, the scents that wash over me are just heavenly. Being House is like flying, too. You're free of the gravity of what people think.
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