“My patriotism is both exclusive and inclusive. It is exclusive in the sense that in all humility I confine my attention to the land of my birth, but it is inclusive in the sense that my service is not of a competitive or antagonistic nature”
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Probable attribution
This saying is widely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, but the attribution is not supported by a reliable primary source.
Likely origin: Attributed to Gandhi (his patriotism writings, cited via 'Third Class in Indian Railways'): 'My patriotism is both exclusive and inclusive...'; exact dated primary not pinned.
About this quote
Love of one's own country and goodwill toward others aren't set against each other here. You can devote yourself fully to the place you come from without that devotion being a bid to beat anyone else. The test is whether it shows up as service rather than rivalry.
When to use it
- A town proud of its own festivals that also sends volunteers to help a rival town after a flood.
- An athlete who competes fiercely for her country yet trains and jokes with foreign rivals off the field.
- A shop owner who champions Main Street without wanting the next town's stores to fail.