“Let us begin by committing ourselves to the truth—to see it like it is, and tell it like it is, to find the truth, to speak the truth, and to live the truth.”
- January 9, 1913 – April 22, 1994
- American
- The 37th President of the United States, Lawyer, Politician
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Quote
“Let us begin by committing ourselves to the truth—to see it like it is, and tell it like it is, to find the truth, to speak the truth, and to live the truth.”
Explanation
In this quote, Richard Nixon calls for an unwavering commitment to truthfulness in both private and public life, urging individuals—and especially leaders—to embrace honesty as the foundation for integrity and governance. The repetition of phrases like “see it like it is,” “tell it like it is,” “speak the truth,” and “live the truth” emphasizes a comprehensive moral and intellectual dedication to reality, free from distortion, spin, or denial. Nixon is advocating not just for truth as a concept, but as a daily practice that demands courage, clarity, and consistency.
This quote stands in poignant contrast to the events that would later define Nixon’s legacy. Delivered early in his presidency, it reflects an ideal of transparent leadership and moral clarity—principles that were profoundly undermined by the Watergate scandal. As the scandal unfolded, revealing efforts to obstruct justice and mislead the public, the dissonance between this ideal and Nixon’s conduct became a central reason for his fall from office. Thus, the quote has become a symbol of both aspiration and irony, echoing the tragic gap between what was preached and what was practiced.
Today, Nixon’s call to “commit ourselves to the truth” remains deeply relevant. In an era of misinformation, political polarization, and eroded public trust, the quote serves as a powerful reminder that truth-telling is not just a virtue—it is a necessity for healthy democracy. It challenges leaders and citizens alike to uphold honesty not only in words, but in action, recognizing that authentic leadership must begin with facing—and owning—the truth.
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