Quotes With Meaning
I will confess to you that, you know, one of the statements that’s been attributed to me that I’m sort of proud of is somebody said, you know, “What do we do about Osama bin Laden?” And they asked me, “Can we forgive him?” And I said, “Forgiveness is up to God. I just hope we hurry up the meeting.” And that’s the way I feel about him, really. [8 February 2003 show of Meet The Press, NBC News]
I will confess to you that, you know, one of the statements that’s been attributed to me that I’m sort of proud of is somebody said, you know, “What do we do about Osama bin Laden?” And they asked me, “Can we forgive him?” And I said, “Forgiveness is up to God. I just hope we hurry up the meeting.” And that’s the way I feel about him, really. [8 February 2003 show of Meet The Press, NBC News]
This quote reflects Norman Schwarzkopf's perspective on forgiveness in the context of Osama bin Laden. He emphasizes that true forgiveness is a divine matter, suggesting that it is ultimately up to God to decide. His remark about hoping to 'hurry up the meeting' implies a sense of urgency for justice rather than personal vengeance. Schwarzkopf acknowledges the complexities of moral choices, especially regarding those who commit severe acts against humanity. It highlights a mindset that seeks accountability while recognizing the limits of human judgment. The quote invites reflection on the nature of forgiveness and the pursuit of peace, urging us to consider our own responses to conflict. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the tension between justice and mercy in our lives.