Tribune Feby 12 Lessons From Lincoln Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday we observe today, is quoted to support a wide variety of political and social philosophies.The Lincoln story was a part of the propaganda of protest and the hope of several foreign revolutions, but he said of revolutions You can better succeed with the ballot. You can then peaceably redeem the government and preserve the liberties of mankind through your votes and voice and moral influence.Lincoln is perhaps the greatest human symbol of American democracy. The sterling quality of his character (he never sacrificed a principle to achieve an end) his statesmanship, his humanness, the ugly duckling story of his rise from a log cabin to the White House, and his martyrdom all go to make his appeal universal.A thread of poetry ran through Lincolns writings, whether personal or state. Someone has said he wrote with the majesty of a Milton and the biblical dignity of a King James scholar. He voiced the doctrines of democracy with words that cling eternally in the minds of men.No wonder Lincoln is so widely quoted. He doubtless would be amused if he returned today and heard other politicians tell what he stood for. So would Washington, Jefferson and Jackson, however. And even Eisenhowers remarks are lifted out of context.As to public security, Lincoln said Let us be vigilant, but keep cool. On freedom Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and, under the rule of a just God, cannot long retain it. And on the presidency If I, in my brief connection with public affairs, shall be wicked or foolish, and if you remain true and honest you cannot be betrayed; my power is temporary; yours eternal as the principles of liberty.