Courage Quote by Thomas Paine
““We know the cause which we are engaged in, and though a passionate fondness for it may make us grieve at every injury which threatens it, yet, when the moment of concern is over, the determination to duty returns. We are not moved by the gloomy smile of a worthless king, but by the ardent glow of generous patriotism. We fight not to enslave, but to set a country free, and to make room upon the earth for honest men to live in. In such a case we are sure that we are right; and we leave to you the despairing reflection of being the tool of a miserable tyrant.””
About This Quote
Source Pamphlet: The Rights of Man, Thomas Paine, 1791
Patriotic duty persists beyond grief; true legitimacy comes from collective patriotism, not tyrannical rule, aiming for freedom and honest living.
In simple terms: Patriotism drives duty, not fear.
Key Takeaway
Uphold justice and freedom.
Themes
patriotism
duty
freedom
Mood
inspirational
political
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- revolution
- nation building
- civil rights
- moral activism
Key Concepts
Republicanism
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a just cause?
- How can patriotism avoid blind nationalism?
A Different Perspective
May overlook complexities of governance.
