Whenever it is possible for a nation or an individual to work for real peace, assuredly it is failure of duty not so to strive, but if war is necessary and righteous then either the man or the nation shrinking from it forfeits all title to self-respect.
Roosevelt asserts that striving for peace is a duty, but emphasizes that avoiding necessary war can lead to a loss of self-respect.
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The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood.
Like all other good citizens, I accept the result with entire good humor and contentment.
I will accept the nomination for President if it is tendered to me, and I will adhere to this decision until the convention has expressed its preference.
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