"I believe that the best way to honor the past is to build a better future."
This quote emphasizes the importance of learning from history, but not being trapped by it. It suggests that we should use our understanding of the past as a foundation for creating something new, improved, and more beneficial in the future. By building a "better future," Olympia Snowe underscores the idea that progress is possible through careful consideration of our past experiences and lessons learned.
"It's not about party; it's about country."
This quote from Olympia Snowe emphasizes that political decisions should prioritize the national interest over partisan interests. It underscores the importance of bipartisanship, working together across ideological divides to serve the greater good for the nation as a whole. It suggests that the goal of politics should be to create positive change and make progress rather than solely adhering to party ideologies or advancing personal agendas.
"To succeed in today's global economy, we must recognize that knowledge and skills are no longer the exclusive property of any one region or demographic group."
This quote emphasizes the need for cross-regional collaboration and inclusivity in the modern, interconnected global economy. In today's world, knowledge and skills are valuable assets that aren't confined to specific geographical locations or demographics. To thrive, we must recognize this fluidity and actively seek out partnerships and opportunities that transcend traditional boundaries, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has a fair chance to succeed economically.
"I believe that when you enter public service, your first responsibility is to listen, not speak."
This quote by Olympia Snowe emphasizes the importance of active listening in the realm of public service. She suggests that before expressing one's own thoughts or ideas, it is crucial to attentively listen to others first. This principle promotes understanding, empathy, and inclusivity, all essential elements for effective decision-making and collaboration in the political landscape. Good leaders who prioritize listening are more likely to build trust, foster strong relationships, and address issues that genuinely matter to their constituents.
"We have a moral obligation to future generations to leave them a world that is cleaner, safer, and more prosperous than the one we inherited."
This quote emphasizes the ethical responsibility we have towards future generations. It suggests that we must strive to maintain and improve our environment (making it cleaner) and ensure safety for the next generations, while also aiming for economic growth and prosperity. In essence, it encourages thoughtful stewardship of resources for long-term sustainability.
I understand why so many Americans are fed up with government. The 112th Congress was almost universally derided as the worst ever. It was the most polarized body since the end of Reconstruction, according to one study, and I grew embarrassed by its partisan bickering, inactivity, and refusal to address the vital challenges facing America.
- Olympia Snowe
What happens is that, you know, on Mondays, at least in the Senate, you know, Monday night we'd have what you'd call a bed-check vote. Just to get, you know, the machinery of the Senate up and running so they can start the committee process; on Tuesday morning, things go. By Thursday, you know, jet fumes, the smell of jet fumes.
- Olympia Snowe
When my first husband died, what I tried to do is to sort of, you know, try to bring some rationale to the circumstance and think about worse circumstances, and also open the door to what other women experienced when all of a sudden they were left alone. And particularly if they had children.
- Olympia Snowe
Joining the Bipartisan Policy Center is a natural extension of my efforts to achieve results throughout my tenure in Congress, and it provides an ideal means for developing strategies that can garner the broad support necessary to achieve real solutions to the challenges confronting our nation.
- Olympia Snowe
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