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Cases Quote by Walter Cronkite

“Would it be better to have a president who cries easily? Well, that depends on what he cried about. I would not like the thought of a president who could not cry. That would be worse than one who cried over the right things. Which, in this case, would be the things I would cry over.” quote by Walter Cronkite
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“Would it be better to have a president who cries easily? Well, that depends on what he cried about. I would not like the thought of a president who could not cry. That would be worse than one who cried over the right things. Which, in this case, would be the things I would cry over.”

Walter Cronkite

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, 1971

A leader's emotional expression matters; appropriate tears show empathy, while inappropriate ones can undermine credibility.

In simple terms: Crying can be good or bad depending on why.

Key Takeaway

Consider the purpose behind emotions.

Themes

leadership empathy authenticity

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

analytical reflective

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • media interviews
  • personal crises
  • public relations

Key Concepts

emotional intelligence public perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should a leader show vulnerability?
  • How do we judge the appropriateness of emotional displays?
A Different Perspective

Emotions can be misinterpreted without context.

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