“We should be too big to take offense and too noble to give it.”
- 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.
Quote
“We should be too big to take offense and too noble to give it.”
Explanation
This quote advocates for a sense of moral maturity and self-possession in both how one reacts to others and how one treats them. The first part of the quote, “too big to take offense,” suggests that a person should be above petty insults or provocations, recognizing that hurtful words or actions often reflect more on the aggressor than the victim. It implies the importance of emotional resilience and the ability to rise above negativity or criticism without feeling personally attacked. The second part, “too noble to give it,” calls for generosity of spirit in how one treats others, emphasizing that a truly noble person would refrain from offending others or causing unnecessary harm, whether through words or actions.
In historical context, this quote speaks to the importance of character and integrity in leadership. It echoes the ideas of figures like Abraham Lincoln, who, despite facing immense personal and political criticism, maintained a level of grace and dignity in his responses. Lincoln often displayed remarkable restraint in the face of harsh opposition, choosing not to be provoked into petty retaliations, and instead focusing on the larger, more noble task at hand—preserving the Union and fighting for justice. His ability to forgive and rise above personal slights was seen as one of his greatest strengths as a leader.
In modern times, the quote can be applied to the importance of emotional intelligence and moral leadership. In the age of social media, where insults and offenses can easily escalate, maintaining a sense of dignity and nobility is often challenging but increasingly important. Leaders, individuals, and organizations that model these principles of restraint and nobility—avoiding unnecessary conflict while choosing to focus on greater purposes—can have a powerful influence on both personal relationships and societal progress. The quote calls for cultivating a sense of strength and grace that transcends the need to engage in or respond to petty disputes.
