I apologize for calling Madam President names in my statement on the radio. My purpose was to encourage every Finnish person to strive forward in life and try to realize their dreams. The statement I gave on the radio could have been phrased otherwise, for example: Everything in life seems possible when someone brought up on the streets can become a Member of Parliament and the ex-president of SETA the President of Finland. The Finnish people have elected you President and I respect their decision. Your politics I will continue to criticize.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author apologizes for insulting the President but claims his intent was to inspire citizens to achieve their dreams.
- In plain terms
- I am sorry for calling the President names, but I just wanted to encourage people to succeed.
- What can you take from it?
- Intent does not justify disrespect, but public figures should speak constructively.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is an apology insufficient?
- How should critics express dissent?
Another view
The apology seems conditional and the speaker continues to criticize the President's politics.
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