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About this quote

What does it mean?
True global citizenship starts with deep love for one's own country.
In plain terms
Loving your native country makes you a good citizen of the world.
What can you take from it?
Root your global outlook in local loyalty.

Where it applies

  • discussing patriotism
  • traveling
  • national celebrations

Putting it to work

  • celebrate local culture
  • engage in civic life

Questions to consider

  • Can you love your country and the world equally?

Another view

Love for country can sometimes turn into exclusionary nationalism.

More from Alfred (Lord) Tennyson

  1. For nothing worthy proving can be proven, Nor yet disproven: wherefore thou be wise, Cleave ever to the sunnier side of doubt, And cling to Faith beyond the fo…

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  2. O young Mariner, You from the haven Under the sea-cliff, You that are watching The gray Magician With eyes of wonder, I am Merlin, And I am dying, I am Merlin …

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  3. Thou that singest wheat and woodland, tilth and vineyard, hive and horse and herd; All the charm of all the Muses often flowering in a lonely word.

    Permalink to quote #34

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