From “Lincoln 365,” by Arnold Kunst
May 9
When Lincoln ran for congress in
1846 his Democratic opponent was a fire-and-brimstone preacher named Peter
Cartwright. The story goes that during the course of the campaign Lincoln went
to one of Cartwright's services. At one point during the service Preacher
Cartwright asked that all who desired to give their lives to God and go to
heaven should stand. Of course everyone stood up. Except Lincoln. He then asked
those who did not wish to go to hell to stand. At this point everyone stood up.
Except Lincoln. Cartwright of course was sensitive to the fact that Lincoln was
in the congregation. He then pointedly asked, ‘Mr. Lincoln, if you didn't stand
in answer to either question where exactly do you intend to go?’ Lincoln
replied: ‘I came here as a respectful listener. I did not know that I was to be
singled out by Brother Cartwright. I believe in treating religious matters with
due solemnity. I admit that the questions propounded by Brother Cartwright are
of great importance. I did not feel called upon to answer as the rest did.
Brother Cartwright asks me directly where I am going. I desire to reply with
equal directness. I am going to Congress.’
'Life is a festival only to the
wise. Seen from the nook and chimney side of prudence it wears a ragged and
dangerous front.'
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
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