Skip to content

Byu Quote by Karl G. Maeser

“I have been asked what I mean by “word of honor.” I will tell you. Place me behind prison walls—walls of stone ever so high, ever so thick, reaching ever so far into the ground—there is a possibility that in some way or another I might be able to escape; but stand me on the floor and draw a chalk…” quote by Karl G. Maeser
Download Open image
““I have been asked what I mean by “word of honor.” I will tell you. Place me behind prison walls—walls of stone ever so high, ever so thick, reaching ever so far into the ground—there is a possibility that in some way or another I might be able to escape; but stand me on the floor and draw a chalk line around me and have me give my word of honor never to cross it. Can I get out of that circle? No, never! I’d die first.””

Karl G. Maeser

About This Quote

A “word of honor” bound by a chalk line is unbreakable; crossing it leads to death, symbolizing ultimate commitment.

In simple terms: Unbreakable promise.

Key Takeaway

Honor commitments fully.

Themes

integrity commitment symbolism

Mood

solemn inspirational

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal vows
  • legal oaths
  • moral dilemmas

Key Concepts

ethics philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What promises are truly binding?
  • How to balance honor and flexibility?
A Different Perspective

Extreme metaphor may seem unrealistic.

2.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Karl G. Maeser

Explore all 23 Karl G. Maeser quotes

More Byu quotes

Browse all 24 Byu quotes