“I desire so to conduct the affairs of this administration that if at the end… I have lost every other friend on earth, I shall at least have one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside of me.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
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Quote
“I desire so to conduct the affairs of this administration that if at the end… I have lost every other friend on earth, I shall at least have one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside of me.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln expresses a commitment to personal integrity and self-reliance. He suggests that, despite external pressures and the inevitable compromises of political life, the one thing he can control and preserve is his own conscience and sense of right. Lincoln implies that, in the end, if he is abandoned by all others, his own internal moral compass will be his greatest ally and source of comfort. This statement reveals his deep personal resolve to act according to his principles, regardless of how it may affect his relationships or political alliances.
This reflects the broader context of Lincoln’s presidency, which was fraught with intense division, particularly around the issue of slavery and the Civil War. Lincoln had to make difficult, often unpopular decisions, but his dedication to the Union and the principle of liberty guided his actions. His self-reliance was a key part of his leadership style, and this quote highlights his belief that, above all, his own honesty and sense of duty should be his guide, even if it meant losing the support of others.
In modern times, this quote can be applied to leadership and ethics, particularly in situations where a leader must make hard decisions that are likely to be unpopular or met with opposition. It serves as a reminder that true leadership often requires personal sacrifice and that, ultimately, one must be able to look inward for validation, rather than relying solely on the approval of others. It is a timeless message about staying true to one’s values, even when faced with adversity or isolation.
