If I were to characterize George Washington's feelings toward his country, I should be less inclined than most people to stress what is called Washington's love of his country. What impresses me as far more important is what I should call Washington's respect for his country.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Washington valued respect for his country more than romanticized love for it. Respect implies a grounded appreciation rather than emotional attachment.
- In plain terms
- Respect for a country is more important than loving it.
- What can you take from it?
- Focus on respecting your country rather than just loving it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does respect look like in practice?
- How do love and respect differ?
Another view
This distinction may downplay the role of emotional connection in patriotism.
More from George Washington
More than all, and above all, Washington was master of himself. If there be one quality more than another in his character which may exercise a useful control …
Permalink to quote #128 Washington wasn't born good. Only practice and habit made him so.
Permalink to quote #130 He is polite with dignity, affable without formality, distant without haughtiness, grave without austerity; modest, wise and good.
Permalink to quote #127
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