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About this quote

What does it mean?
Transforming adversaries into allies neutralizes conflict more effectively than destruction.
In plain terms
Making friends out of enemies stops them from fighting you.
What can you take from it?
Seek reconciliation over confrontation to end opposition.

Where it applies

  • workplace disputes
  • international relations
  • personal feuds

Putting it to work

  • mediate disputes
  • build bridges
  • offer peace terms

Questions to consider

  • How can you turn a rival into an ally?
  • Is enmity ever necessary?

Another view

This approach may not work against adversaries who refuse dialogue.

More from Abraham Lincoln

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  2. I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday.

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  3. I am not concerned that you have fallen; I am concerned that you arise.

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