"Our country will, I believe, sooner forgive an officer for attacking an enemy than for letting it alone"
- Horatio Nelson
About this Quote
This quote by Horatio Nelson talks to the significance of acting in the face of misfortune. He is suggesting that it is much better to take action, even if it is wrong, than to do nothing at all. He suggests that the country will forgive an officer for attacking an opponent, even if it is wrong, since it reveals that the officer is willing to do something about it and defend what they think in. On the other hand, if an officer not does anything, then they are not seen as taking a stand for their beliefs and the country may not be as forgiving. This quote speaks to the significance of doing something about it and standing up for what you think in, even if it is not the most popular opinion. It likewise talks to the concept that it is much better to do something about it and make mistakes than to do nothing at all.
"When the principles that run against your deepest convictions begin to win the day, then the battle is your calling, and peace has become sin. You must at the price of dearest peace lay your convictions bare before friend and enemy with all the fire of your faith"