"We must be the change we wish to see in the world."
This quote by Mario Cuomo emphasizes personal responsibility and action in driving societal change. It encourages individuals to not just wait for a better world, but to actively participate in making it happen. Essentially, if we want to see positive changes in the world, we must embody those changes within ourselves first, starting with our own actions, attitudes, and behaviors.
"The American dream is not that every family should have a house, but that every family should have the chance to get a house."
This quote emphasizes that the essence of the "American Dream" transcends material possessions like owning a house. Rather, it underscores the value of opportunity – the possibility for everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, to aspire towards achieving a home, symbolizing stability, security, and self-reliance. It's not just about having a house; it's about being granted the chance to work hard, make informed decisions, and ultimately acquire it.
"You campaign in poetry; you govern in prose."
Mario Cuomo's quote "You campaign in poetry; you govern in prose" implies that political campaigns, with their eloquent speeches and grand promises, are often characterized by idealistic and poetic language. However, the reality of governing involves the practical implementation of these ideas, which is more like working with prosaic, realistic, and often mundane details. This quote underscores the discrepancy between the aspirational language of campaigns and the complexities of actual governance.
"I am one who believes that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality."
The quote suggests a deep-rooted faith in the power of truth and love, devoid of any ulterior motives or conditions, to ultimately prevail in shaping reality. In essence, it conveys a conviction that the raw, undiluted force of truth and genuine, selfless love have an enduring impact on the world, eventually overcoming whatever opposing forces may exist.
"Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem." (This quote is actually attributed to Ronald Reagan, but it's often misattributed to Mario Cuomo.)
This quote suggests that an overreliance on government as a means of solving societal issues can lead to more problems rather than solutions. The speaker argues that the complexity of social, economic, or political challenges often requires self-governance, community engagement, and individual responsibility instead of relying solely on government intervention. In essence, the quote advocates for empowering individuals and communities to address their own problems and encourages caution against blindly trusting government as a panacea.
I'm not better than other politicians, but I'm different because I got into the game much later in life, after I had raised a family, after I had written a book, after I had been a successful lawyer. It's different when you get into this business after you've led a full life. I don't want to be a big man. I know who I am.
- Mario Cuomo
I think - something I learned recently looking up the meaning of ideology. If you look in American encyclopedias, it says, you know, 'Rules for - basic rules for a system of economics or politics.' If you look in the Oxford, it says that, and then it says... 'Despite - and people will hold these propositions despite events.'
- Mario Cuomo
If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.