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There is a new America every morning when we wake up. It is upon us whether we will it or not. The new America is the sum of many small changes - a new subdivision here, a new school there, a new industry where there had been swampland - changes that add up to a broad transformation of our lives. Our task is to guide these changes. For, though change is inevitable, change for the better is a full-time job.

Adlai Stevenson#51

PoliticsChangeSocietyProgressCivic duty

About this quote

What does it mean?
America changes daily through small shifts that require active guidance for improvement.
In plain terms
The country changes every day through small things and we must guide those changes for the better.
What can you take from it?
Progress needs constant effort even if change is inevitable.

Where it applies

  • urban planning
  • policy making
  • community development

Putting it to work

  • guide change intentionally
  • support local improvements
  • plan for growth

Questions to consider

  • How do small changes add up to transformation?
  • Who should guide societal change?

Another view

It may underestimate resistance to structural change.

More from Adlai Stevenson

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