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We want a man whose life and opinions embody all the achievements of which I have spoken. We want a man who, standing on a mountain height, traces the victorious footsteps of our party in the past, and, carrying in his heart the memory of its glorious deeds, looks forward prepared to meet the dangers to come. We want one who will act in no spirit of unkindness toward those we lately met in battle.

James A. Garfield#25

LeadershipUnityDutyKindnessMemoryVision

About this quote

What does it mean?
Garfield calls for a leader who honors past achievements while facing future dangers with kindness.
In plain terms
Choose a leader who remembers the past but fights future battles kindly.
What can you take from it?
Leadership needs memory of glory and courage for new challenges without hate.

Where it applies

  • election campaigns
  • party conventions
  • state of union

Putting it to work

  • set standards
  • unite factions
  • frame vision

Questions to consider

  • What qualities make a true leader?
  • Can unity exist after conflict?

Another view

The ideal is high and may not match any available candidates realistically.

More from James A. Garfield

  1. In order to win victory now, we want the vote of every Republican - of every Grant Republican, and every anti-Grant Republican, in America - of every Blaine ma…

    Permalink to quote #24
  2. He has shown himself able to meet with calmness the great emergencies of the government. For twenty-five years he has trodden the perilous heights of public du…

    Permalink to quote #26
  3. Then, after the storms of battle, were heard the calm words of peace spoken by the conquering nation, saying to the foe that lay prostrate at its feet: 'This i…

    Permalink to quote #23

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