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About this quote

What does it mean?
Jones values peace but will actively fight if war continues.
In plain terms
He wants peace but will fight hard if needed.
What can you take from it?
Choose peace but be ready for war.

Where it applies

  • military service
  • diplomacy
  • crisis

Putting it to work

  • seek peace first
  • prepare for defense
  • commit to duty

Questions to consider

  • When is war justified?
  • How do you balance peace and duty?

Another view

Preferring peace may be seen as weak by some.

More from John Paul Jones

  1. Where men of fine feeling are concerned there is seldom misunderstanding.

    Permalink to quote #4
  2. If fear is cultivated it will become stronger, if faith is cultivated it will achieve mastery.

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. I may sink, but I'll be damned if I strike!

    Permalink to quote #3

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