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About this quote

What does it mean?
The nation must align its actions with its values instead of hypocrisy.
In plain terms
Do what you say you believe.
What can you take from it?
Align actions with stated beliefs.

Where it applies

  • governance
  • civic duty
  • activism

Putting it to work

  • audit policies against values
  • speak consistently

Questions to consider

  • What is your creed?
  • Does your deed match?

Another view

It simplifies the complexity of political compromise.

More from Ralph Waldo Emerson

  1. O tenderly the haughty day Fills his blue urn with fire; One morn is in the mighty heaven, And one in our desire.

    Permalink to quote #217
  2. I think no virtue goes with size; The reason of all cowardice Is, that men are overgrown, And, to be valiant, must come down To the titmouse dimension.

    Permalink to quote #219
  3. To-day unbind the captive, So only are ye unbound; Lift up a people from the dust, Trump of their rescue, sound!

    Permalink to quote #216

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