"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt."
Not Abraham Lincoln Today we celebrate the 210th birthday of our nation's 16th president - Abraham Lincoln. Known for his wisdom and ability to string words together in a coherent manner, it's no surprise that he is still one of the most quoted figures in the world. Of course, that also means that he's been given credit where it is not due.
Since before the Internet people have misattributed quotes to Lincoln and others. It may seem like a victimless crime, but you, the person spreading the false information, are the victim...not to mention the countless people who then see the quote and continue to spread it.
And while I'm sure President Lincoln would have appreciated the sentiments of phrases like "Whatever you are, be a good one." and "You can't fool all the people all the time." he did not say them.
So, on Mr. Lincoln's birthday, why not take the time to make sure your inspirational quote is actually from the birthday boy himself. If you don't know where to look, or don't have the time, here are a few that I can guarantee Abraham Lincoln did actually say and/or write.
Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed, is more important than any other one thing.
November 5, 1855 - Letter to Isham Reavis
The world has never had a good definition of the word liberty, and the American people, just now, are much in want of one. We all declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean the same thing.
April 18, 1864 - Address at Baltimore
Nothing valuable can be lost by taking time.
March 4, 1861 - First Inaugural Address
...just for fun: