I really rebel against this idea that politics has to be a place
I really rebel against this idea that politics has to be a place full of ego and where you're constantly focused on scoring hits against each one another. Yes, we need a robust democracy, but you can be strong, and you can be kind.
Hear, O heirs of tomorrow, the gentle yet unyielding words of Jacinda Ardern: “I really rebel against this idea that politics has to be a place full of ego and where you're constantly focused on scoring hits against one another. Yes, we need a robust democracy, but you can be strong, and you can be kind.” In these words shines a vision that defies the common belief that politics must be drenched in cruelty, vanity, and endless rivalry. She proclaims a new truth: that true strength does not come from wounding others, but from uniting firmness with kindness.
The history of mankind is heavy with the weight of leaders who exalted themselves through pride and ego, who mistook mockery and conflict for greatness. But Ardern’s words remind us that the truest leader is not the loudest, nor the cruelest, but the one who wields power with compassion. To lead without kindness is to rule with emptiness; to lead with both strength and kindness is to guide with wisdom.
Remember the tale of Marcus Aurelius, emperor of Rome, who, though he held dominion over legions and lands, spoke always of humility, patience, and virtue. His strength lay not in crushing foes for sport, but in holding his own spirit above the poison of pride. Likewise, Ardern’s teaching points to the eternal truth: one may be resolute without being ruthless, commanding without being cruel.
In her own time, she proved this in deeds. After the dark tragedy in Christchurch, she did not call for vengeance, nor cloak herself in rage. Instead, she showed the world the face of kindness, comforting the grieving, wrapping them in compassion while still moving swiftly to strengthen laws and protect her people. Thus, she embodied her own words: robust democracy does not demand brutality, but harmony between justice and mercy.
Therefore, O children of the future, hold fast to this teaching: greatness in leadership is not born from the tally of one’s victories over rivals, but from the balance of strength and kindness. The world will ever tempt rulers toward vanity and cruelty, but wisdom whispers otherwise: that the mightiest heart is the one that refuses to harden, even while it stands firm against the storms of the age.
NBHoang Ngann Bui
Jacinda Ardern’s quote really speaks to the need for a cultural shift in politics. It’s refreshing to hear a leader advocate for strength paired with kindness, rather than the ego-driven politics we often see. How do we encourage future political leaders to embody these qualities? Could kindness be seen as a form of strength in politics, or are we too conditioned to view power through a lens of aggression and competition?
YLYen Le
I completely agree with Jacinda Ardern’s rejection of ego-driven politics. The idea that politics must be about ‘scoring hits’ against each other is not only unhealthy but counterproductive. How can we promote a political system where empathy, respect, and kindness are valued just as much as power and influence? It seems like a fundamental shift is needed, one that prioritizes collaboration for the greater good rather than personal gain.
QNQuynh Nhu
Jacinda Ardern’s point about balancing strength and kindness in politics is something we don’t hear often. In an age of constant political bickering, it’s a reminder that democracy can still be robust without degrading into personal attacks. Can we shift the political culture to be more about cooperation and less about ‘scoring hits’? It’s something worth striving for, especially in such divisive times.
MTLe Manh Toan
This quote by Jacinda Ardern really resonates with me. Politics seems so often focused on conflict and personal egos, but her perspective challenges this approach. I think it's crucial for politicians to remember that strength doesn't always mean aggression. Can we build a better political environment by prioritizing kindness and collaboration? It would be great to see more politicians embracing this balanced, compassionate approach in their leadership styles.
TKVI THANH KIEN
Jacinda Ardern's statement is refreshing in its call for kindness and strength in politics. In a time when politics often feels like a battleground of egos, her words remind us that it doesn't have to be this way. Is it possible to shift the narrative in politics towards collaboration rather than constant confrontation? I believe that if more leaders embodied this spirit of kindness and strength, democracy could be much more effective and inclusive.