Government service Quote by Shirley Sherrod
“If you're in government service for the money, then you'll do what you have to do to survive. But if you're in it to do the right thing, then it might mean that you won't get to stay there, but at least you can say, "I did what was right while I was there."”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public address on public service ethics, 2015
Serving for money leads to compromise; serving for principle may cost position but preserves integrity.
In simple terms: Money motives compromise; principle motives preserve integrity.
Key Takeaway
Choose integrity over personal gain.
Themes
ethics
public service
integrity
career
principle
Mood
determined
inspirational
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government jobs
- non‑profit work
- activism
- career decisions
Key Concepts
moral courage
institutional pressure
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you sacrifice for integrity?
- How do you stay true under pressure?
A Different Perspective
Integrity may lead to job loss.
