Lincoln's second inaugural address is undoubtedly one of the most eloquent discourses ever produced. This short message was given as the president took the oath for the second time and as the civil war was coming to an end. Even though there are many great things about this document, there are two things in particular that I really enjoy. The first one is the very last paragraph of the address: With malice towards none; with charity for all men, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wound; to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace, among ourselves and with all nations. What I find truly amazing about this paragraph is that Abraham Lincoln was so ready to forgive and help those who had been his enemies and have sought for the destruction of the nation. It is amazing to me that he is willing to forgive those that decided to go to war for selfish reason, to keep their brethren enslaved. That is truly amazing to me, that he was so ready to forgive and accept everyone.
The second point that I really like is when he calls out those who would find just to make their brethren work as slaves for them. It is truly remarkable that people would have thought that they had any claim to divine assistance goes against the nature of charity, the true love of Christ. But as Lincoln wisely remarks, it is better for us not to pas any judgement.
I truly enjoyed reading this document. I recommend you all to do it =)
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