Though it cost the blood of millions of white men, let it come. Let justice be done. - John Quincy Adams

In charity to all mankind, bearing no malice or ill will to any human being, and even compassionating those who hold in bondage their fellow men, not knowing what they do.

Oh! God, my only trust went there
Through all life's scenes before
Lo! At the throne again I bow,
New mercies to implore.

Grant active power, grant fervent zeal,
And guide by thy control,
And ever be my country's weal
The purpose of my soul.

Extend, all seeing God, thy hand
In memory still decree
And make, to bless thy native land
An instrument of me.
-September 21, 1817

We understand now, we've been made to understand, and to embrace the understanding that who we are is who we were.