Every man is said to have his peculiar ambition. Whether it be true or not, I can say, for one, that I have no other so great as that of being truly esteemed of my fellow-men, by rendering myself worthy of their esteem.

More from Abraham Lincoln

• Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.
• I don’t know who my grandfather was. I am much more concerned to know what his grandson will be.
• I have in irrepressible desire to live till I can be assured that the world is a little better for my having lived in it.
• I have now come to the conclusion never again to think of marrying, and for this reason; I can never be satisfied with anyone who would be blockhead enough to have me.
• It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
• I would consent to any great evil, to avoid a greater one.