Candle Quote by Alistair Cooke
“The day of judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. I wish therefore that candles may be brought.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Moral Responsibility, 1972
One must act responsibly now, not postpone duty, because judgment may be imminent or never.
In simple terms: Act now, don’t delay duty.
Key Takeaway
Do your duty without delay.
Themes
responsibility
ethics
urgency
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political decision‑making
- personal ethics
- career choices
- environmental action
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
existential risk
Questions to Reflect On
- What duties feel urgent to you?
- How do you balance preparation with immediate action?
A Different Perspective
Uncertainty about judgment can cause paralysis.
![“[In 1889] the last big tract of Indian land was declared open for settlement, in Oklahoma. The claimants and the speculators mounted their horses and lined up like trotters waiting for a starting gun. The itchy ones jumped the gun and were ever after known as Sooners-and Oklahoma was thereafter…” quote by Alistair Cooke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/245/alistair-cooke-9876_bigs_in-1889-the-last-big-tract-of-indian-lan_243366.jpg)
