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About this quote

What does it mean?
History shows people often endure unnecessary burdens from their governments. This patience is remarkable yet concerning.
In plain terms
People tolerate too many burdens from their leaders without complaint.
What can you take from it?
Question unnecessary burdens imposed by authority.

Where it applies

  • dealing with bureaucracy
  • voting
  • civil disobedience

Putting it to work

  • audit government demands
  • challenge unfair rules

Questions to consider

  • What burdens do you accept without question?
  • When should patience turn to action?

Another view

Some burdens are necessary for social order.

More from George Washington

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  3. The foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing is a vice so mean and low that every person of sense and character detests and despises it.

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