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President Lincoln had a disarming and
engaging ability to laugh at himself,
especially his own physical appearance.
When Senator Stephen A Douglas once
called him a "two-faced-man", Lincoln
responded, "I leave it to my audience.
If I had another face, do you think I
would wear this one?"
Another time he told a group of editors
about meeting a woman riding on horse back
in the wood. She "looked at me intently,
and said, 'I do believe you are the ugliest
man I ever saw.' Said I, 'Madam, you are
probably right, but I can't help it.'
'No,' said she, 'you can't help it, but
you might stay at home.' "
Although his likeness is widely recognized,
Lincoln is not known primarily for his appearance,
but for his courageous stance for restoration of
the Union and the abolition of slavery. He is
often held up as an example of remarkable patience,
determination, dedication, strong will, compassion,
thoughtfulness, and selflessness. These inner
qualities are what mark Lincoln as one of America's
greatest presidents.
So much is made in our culture today of outward
appearance and material possessions. We do well
to remember that it is our virtuous inner qualities
that create a lasting reputation.
the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for
man looketh on the outward appearance,
but the Lord looketh on the heart.
I Samuel l6:7
This is from my "God's Little Devotional
Book"....for more from this book visit: Life's
Lessons
pictures found at WebShots
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