第一篇:《布什告别演讲》(Bushs Farewell Address)英文版
《布什告别演讲》(Bush's Farewell Address)英文版
THE PRESIDENT: Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President.The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence — a time set apart.Tonight, with a thankful heart, I have asked for a final opportunity to share some thoughts on the journey that we have traveled together, and the future of our nation.Five days from now, the world will witness the vitality of American democracy.In a tradition dating back to our founding, the presidency will pass to a successor chosen by you, the American people.Standing on the steps of the Capitol will be a man whose history reflects the enduring promise of our land.This is a moment of hope and pride for our whole nation.And I join all Americans in offering best wishes to President-Elect Obama, his wife Michelle, and their two beautiful girls.Tonight I am filled with gratitude — to Vice President Cheney and members of my administration;to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life;to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna;to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime.And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me.I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits.And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity, and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this house — September the 11th, 2001.That morning, terrorists took nearly 3,000 lives in the worst attack on America since Pearl Harbor.I remember standing in the rubble of the World Trade Center three days later, surrounded by rescuers who had been working around the clock.I remember talking to brave souls who charged through smoke-filled corridors at the Pentagon, and to husbands and wives whose loved ones became heroes aboard Flight 93.I remember Arlene Howard, who gave me her fallen son’s police shield as a reminder of all that was lost.And I still carry his badge.As the years passed, most Americans were able to return to life much as it had been before 9/11.But I never did.Every morning, I received a briefing on the threats to our nation.I vowed to do everything in my power to keep us safe.Over the past seven years, a new Department of Homeland Security has been created.The military, the intelligence community, and the FBI have been transformed.Our nation is equipped with new tools to monitor the terrorists’ movements, freeze their finances, and break up their plots.And with strong allies at our side, we have taken the fight to the terrorists and those who support them.Afghanistan has gone from a nation where the Taliban harbored al Qaeda and stoned women in the streets to a young democracy that is fighting terror and encouraging girls to go to school.Iraq has gone from a brutal dictatorship and a sworn enemy of America to an Arab democracy at the heart of the Middle East and a friend of the United States.There is legitimate debate about many of these decisions.But there can be little debate about the results.America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil.This is a tribute to those who toil night and day to keep us safe — law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.Our nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger.I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families.And America owes you a debt of gratitude.And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your Commander-in-Chief.The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems.Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience, and marks unbelievers for murder.The other system is based on the conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God, and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.This is the belief that gave birth to our nation.And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens.When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror.When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism.So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights, and human dignity.We’re standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to dying patients — to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria.And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.For eight years, we’ve also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home.Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools.A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled.Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes.The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based programs.Vulnerable human life is better protected.Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled.America’s air and water and lands are measurably cleaner.And the federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them.Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy.These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted.All Americans are in this together.And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth.We will show the world once again the resilience of America’s free enterprise system.Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks.There are things I would do differently if given the chance.Yet I’ve always acted with the best interests of our country in mind.I have followed my conscience and done what I thought was right.You may not agree with some of the tough decisions I have made.But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.While our nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack.Our enemies are patient, and determined to strike again.America did nothing to seek or deserve this conflict.But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them.We must resist complacency.We must keep our resolve.And we must never let down our guard.At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose.In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward.But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism.Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger.In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad.If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.As we address these challenges — and others we cannot foresee tonight — America must maintain our moral clarity.I’ve often spoken to you about good and evil, and this has made some uncomfortable.But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two of them there can be no compromise.Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere.Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right.This nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth.We must always be willing to act in their defense — and to advance the cause of peace.President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism.America is a young country, full of vitality, constantly growing and renewing itself.And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people.This is a nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom.This is a nation where citizens show calm in times of danger, and compassion in the face of suffering.We see examples of America’s character all around us.And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.We see America’s character in Dr.Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society.We’ve seen it in Staff Sergeant Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.We see America’s character in Bill Krissoff — a surgeon from California.His son, Nathan — a Marine — gave his life in Iraq.When I met Dr.Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son.This good man was 60 years old — 18 years above the age limit.But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine.Lieutenant Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America’s wounded warriors — and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.In citizens like these, we see the best of our countrycitizen of the United States of America.And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night.May God bless this house and our next President.And may God bless you and our wonderful country.Thank you.(Applause.)
第二篇:布什告别演讲 英文演讲稿
THE PRESIDENT: Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President.The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence — a time set apart.Tonight, with a thankful heart, I have asked for a final opportunity to share some thoughts on the journey that we have traveled together, and the future of our nation.Five days from now, the world will witness the vitality of American democracy.In a tradition dating back to our founding, the presidency will pass to a
successor chosen by you, the American people.Standing on the steps of the Capitol will be a man whose history reflects the enduring promise of our land.This is a moment of hope and pride for our whole nation.And I join all
Americans in offering best wishes to President-Elect Obama, his wife Michelle, and their two beautiful girls.Tonight I am filled with gratitude — to Vice President Cheney and members of my administration;to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life;to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna;to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime.And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me.I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits.And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity, and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this house — September the 11th, 2001.That morning, terrorists took nearly 3,000 lives in the worst attack on America since Pearl Harbor.I remember standing in the rubble of the World Trade Center three days later, surrounded by rescuers who had been working around the clock.I remember talking to brave souls who charged through smoke-filled corridors at the Pentagon, and to husbands and wives whose loved ones became heroes aboard Flight 93.I remember Arlene Howard, who gave me her fallen son’s police shield as a reminder of all that was lost.And I still carry his badge.As the years passed, most Americans were able to return to life much as it had been before 9/11.But I never did.Every morning, I received a briefing on
the threats to our nation.I vowed to do everything in my power to keep us safe.Over the past seven years, a new Department of Homeland Security has
been created.The military, the intelligence community, and the FBI have been transformed.Our nation is equipped with new tools to monitor the terrorists’ movements, freeze their finances, and break up their plots.And with strong allies at our side, we have taken the fight to the terrorists and those who support them.Afghanistan has gone from a nation where the Taliban
harbored al Qaeda and stoned women in the streets to a young democracy that is fighting terror and encouraging girls to go to school.Iraq has gone from a brutal dictatorship and a sworn enemy of America to an Arab democracy at the heart of the Middle East and a friend of the United States.There is legitimate debate about many of these decisions.But there can be little debate about the results.America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil.This is a tribute to those who toil night and day to keep us safe — law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.Our nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger.I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families.And America owes you a debt of gratitude.And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your Commander-in-Chief.The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems.Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience, and marks unbelievers for murder.The other system is based on the
conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God, and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.This is the belief that gave birth to our nation.And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens.When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror.When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism.So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights, and human dignity.We’re standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to dying patients — to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria.And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.For eight years, we’ve also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home.Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools.A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled.Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes.The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based
programs.Vulnerable human life is better protected.Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled.America’s air and water and lands are measurably
cleaner.And the federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them.Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy.These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted.All Americans are in this together.And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth.We will show the world once again the resilience of America’s free enterprise system.Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks.There are things I would do differently if given the chance.Yet I’ve always acted with the best interests of our country in mind.I have followed my
conscience and done what I thought was right.You may not agree with some
of the tough decisions I have made.But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.While our nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack.Our enemies are patient, and determined to strike again.America did nothing to seek or deserve this
conflict.But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them.We must resist complacency.We must keep our resolve.And we must never let down our guard.At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose.In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward.But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism.Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger.In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad.If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.As we address these challenges — and others we cannot foresee tonight — America must maintain our moral clarity.I’ve often spoken to you about good and evil, and this has made some uncomfortable.But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two of them there can be no
compromise.Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere.Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right.This nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth.We must always be willing to act in their defense — and to advance the cause of peace.President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism.America is a young country, full of vitality,constantly growing and renewing itself.And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people.This is a nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom.This is a nation where citizens show calm in times of danger, and compassion in the face of suffering.We see examples of
America’s character all around us.And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.We see America’s character in Dr.Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society.We’ve seen it in Staff Sergeant Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.We see America’s character in Bill Krissoff — a surgeon from California.His son, Nathan — a Marine — gave his life in Iraq.When I met Dr.Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son.This good man was 60 years old — 18 years above the age limit.But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine.Lieutenant
Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America’s wounded warriors — and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.In citizens like these, we see the best of our countrycitizen of the United States of America.And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night.May God bless this house and our next President.And may God bless you and our wonderful country.Thank you.(Applause.)
第三篇:布什告别演讲全文
布什告别演讲全文:我跟随良知的指引
美国当地时间15日晚8时(北京时间16日上午9时),美国总统布什在白宫发表最后告别演说。据白宫官员透露,演说总长13分钟,共5页,布什称自己的总统任期为“在危机中取得重大成就”的时期。
以下为演说全文
各位同胞:在过去的八年间作为你们的总统,是我的荣幸。新世纪的第一个十年,是重要的十年——一个与众不同的十年。
今晚,怀着感恩之心,请允许我在这最后的机会分享一些想法,一些有关总统历程和国家未来的想法。
五天之后,世界将目击美国民主的一个重要时刻。按照建国伊始的传统,总统之职将传递给你们——美国人民选择的继任者。这位即将站在国会台阶上的人,他的故事正彰显了我们这块土地所延续的承诺。
对我们整个国家来说,这是一个充满希望与自豪的时刻。我与全体美国人民一道,对候任总统奥巴马、他的妻子米歇尔和他们那一双美丽的女儿,致以最美好的祝愿。今晚,让我表达对副总统切尼和内阁成员的感激之情;我还要感谢劳拉(译者注:布什的夫人),是你为我们的家庭带来欢乐,为我的生活带来爱;还要感谢我们的女儿,芭芭拉和詹纳;以及我的父母――是他们的榜样为我提供了一生的力量。
而最重要的,我要感谢你们――美国人民,感谢你们给予我的信任。感谢你们的祈祷,它振奋着我的灵魂。感谢在过去八年间我所见证过的,无以计数的勇气、慷慨、和仁爱。今晚,我的思绪回到2001年9月11日,我第一次在这里向全国发表讲话。
那个早上,恐怖分子在那次自珍珠港事件以来,美国所遭受过的最严重的袭击中夺去了近3000名美国人民的生命。我记得三天后,我站在世贸中心的废墟之中,身边是加班加点连续作战的救援人员。
我记得与那些穿越五角大楼浓烟的勇士们的对话,以及与93航班上殉难英雄们的妻子或丈夫们的交谈。
我记得艾琳•霍华德。她把她逝去的儿子的警徽送给我。那个警徽提示我们所有失去的记忆――我至今仍然随身携带他的徽章。
随着时间的逝去,大多数美国人能够恢复到9.11之前的正常生活中去。但我不能。每天早上,我都会收到一份对我国威胁状况的简报。我发誓尽我的一切力量保卫美国的安全。
在过去的八年间,一个新的部门——国土安全部成立了。军队、情报部门、FBI都发生了改观。
我们的国家掌握了新的手段来监视恐怖分子的活动、冻结他们的财务、打破他们的图谋。而有坚强的盟友与我们一道,我们对恐怖分子和他们的支持者宣战。
阿富汗,从一个塔利班袒护基地组织、妇女当街遭乱石致死的国家,转变为一个对抗恐怖主义、支持女孩子们走进校门的年轻民主国家。
伊拉克从一个残酷的独裁国家、美国的宿敌,转变为位于中东心脏的阿拉伯民主国家,和美国的朋友。对于这些决策进行辩论是完全合理的,但其结果是不可辩驳的。
在过去的七年间没有发生一起在美国土地上的恐怖袭击活动。这是那些夜以继日保障我们安全者的功劳——执法官员、情报分析员、国土安全与外交人士,和美国武装部队中服役的男女士兵。
这些在危难时志愿保卫我们国家的公民是美国之福。我记忆中珍藏着与这些无私的爱国者,以及他们的家人的见面的情景。美国感谢你们。
对于今晚正在收听讲话的部队中的男女士兵,我要说:没有比作为你们的最高统帅更荣耀的事了。我们的战士所进行的战争,在广义上,是这样两个截然不同的体系间的斗争。在一个体系中,是一小撮狂热分子,追求对一种压迫性的意识形态的绝对服从;女性只能屈从附属;异教徒遭到谋杀。
而另一个系统是基于这样的信念:自由是全能的上帝赐予我们的普世礼物;自由与公证将点亮通往和平之路。我们的国家正是诞生于这样的信仰之中。而从长远来看,只有发扬这样的信仰,才能实实在在保护我们公民的安全。
当人们生活在自由中,他们不会去选择那些发动恐怖战争的领袖。当人们对未来充满希望时,他们不会令生活向暴力与极端主义俯首。因此在世界范围内,美国推崇人类自由、人权与尊严。
我们与持不同政见者和年轻的民主力量并肩作战;我们提供艾滋病药品挽救垂危的病人;我们挽救患疟疾的母亲与婴儿。我们这个与自由共同降生的伟大共和国,正引领世界走向一个自由属于所有国家的新时代。
在过去的八年间,我们还努力在美国本土扩展机会和希望。在美国各地,公立学校的学生们获得提升,达到更高的标准。
一个新的医疗福利计划让老年人和残障人士无后顾之忧。每位纳税人的所得税更低。瘾君子与其他处在痛苦中的人士从基于信仰的组织中找到新希望。
人类脆弱的生命获得了更好的保护。安置退伍老兵的资金几乎倍增。美国的空气、水与土地更清洁。睿智的新法官,如山姆•阿利托法官和约翰•罗伯茨首席法官加入联邦法院。
当影响美国繁荣的挑战出现时,我们直面之。当面对金融崩溃的前景时,我们采取果断措施,保卫我们的经济。
对于那些努力工作的家庭来说,这一时刻相当艰难。但如果我们不采取任何行动的话,情况会糟糕得多。对此,全美国凝聚在一起。信念、苦干和团结,将让我们把经济重新带回增长的轨道。
我们会再次向世界展示美国自由企业系统的韧性。如同所有我的前任一样,我也经历过挫折。如果还能有机会,有些事我会做出不同的选择。然而,我始终是以我们国家的利益为考虑标准。我跟随良知的指引,做我认为正确的选择。
你可能不同意我曾经做出的一些强硬的决定。但是我希望你能相信,那是出自我的真实意愿。未来的十年里,我们将面临更多的艰难抉择,我们应该有一些原则来决定我们的方针政策。
虽然我们的国家比七年前更加安全,但恐怖袭击依然是我们面临的最大威胁。我们的敌人极富耐心地等待下一次袭击。美国人本不应该承受这种灾难。但是我们有责任,也必须去面对这些威胁。我们要避免自满,我们要坚定决心,我们决不能放松警惕。
同时,我们还应该继续怀着自信和清晰的目标来参与世界各地的事务。面对来自外面的威胁,人们很容易畏缩不前。但是我们必须杜绝孤立主义和保护主义,闭门造车无异于玩火自焚。在21世纪里,一个国家的稳定和繁荣,取决于整个世界的自由进程。如果美国不能引导自由,那就没有人可以做到。
当我们谈论这些问题的时候——还有那些我们今晚无法预测的问题——美国人必须保持明确的道德性。我曾经无数次地跟你们讨论过善与恶。这个话题可能过于沉重,但世界上的确是善恶并存,并且没有妥协。
依靠残害无辜来推进意识形态在任何时候、任何地方都是错误的。将人们从压迫和绝望中解救出来才是正确的。这个国家必须继续宣扬真理和正义。我们要继续坚持推进和平。
托马斯·杰斐逊总统曾经写道:“我不缅怀过去的历史,而致力于未来的梦想。”当我要离开两个世纪前他住过的这座建筑的时候,我希望能够与你们分享这种乐观。美国是个年轻的国家,充满活力,不断成长,不断创新。即使在最艰难的时刻,我们仍昂首望着远方。
我对美国的承诺充满信心,因为我知道美国人的精神。
这是一个能够激励移民冒所有的风险来追求自由的国家。这是一个人民在危机中仍保持镇静,在痛苦中仍怀有同情的国家。我们周围都是这样的人。
今晚,劳拉和我邀请了一些人来白宫加入我们。我们在托尼·雷卡斯纳尔博士身上看到了美国精神,他在卡特里娜飓风的废墟中建立起一座崭新的学校。我们在胡里奥·梅迪纳身上看到了美国精神,他出狱后怀着信仰,领导了一个帮助犯人重返社会的帮助计划。
我们在奥布里·麦克戴德身上看到了美国精神,他在伊拉克勇闯敌阵救出了三个战友。我们在比尔·克里索夫身上看到了美国精神,这位来自加利福尼亚的外科医生,他的儿子牺牲在了伊拉克的战场。
当我见到克里索夫医生和他的家人时,他告诉我一个令人惊异的消息:为了纪念他的儿子,他希望加入海军医疗队。这位老人已经60岁了——比参军年龄上限大了整整18岁。
但是他的请求被允许了,过去几年里他一直在战地医院接受培训。克里索夫海军少校今天无法来到现场,因为他马上就要开赴伊拉克,在那里,他将帮助受伤的勇士们,并以此来纪念他的儿子。在这些美国人的身上,我们看到了我们国家的精髓——百折不挠而又充满希望,心存善良而又生性坚强。
这些美德使得我对美国的信心不可动摇。我们经历了危机与考验,而前方还会有诸多凶险。但是有了我们的勇气和信念,这个伟大的国家将不知疲倦……毫不犹豫……永不言败。我很荣幸有生之年能够成为总统,我体会过快乐,也经历过艰难。
但是每天我都为这个伟大的国家和善良的人民所振奋。我非常幸运地能够代表这个我们深爱的国家。我将永远为这个对我意味着更多的头衔而感到骄傲:美利坚合众国公民。
所以,美国人民,在这最后的时刻:晚安。愿上帝保佑下一任总统。愿上帝保佑我们和这个美丽的国家。
第四篇:布什告别演讲全文
各位同胞:
过去的八年,我很荣幸地成为你们的总统。这个世纪的头十年是一个非常重要的时期。今晚,带着一颗感恩的心,我将利用这最后的机会和你们一起分享我的一些看法,对过去一起走过的时光以及我们国家未来的看法。
再过五天,世界将见证充满活力的美国民主政治。根据我们建国时创立的传统,总统职位将交给你们——美国人民选举出来的继任者。届时站在国会台阶上的那个人,他的经历将折射出我们这个国家长久以来的承诺。对于我们整个国家来说,这是一个充满希望和自豪的时刻。我将和其他所有美国人民一起,向当选总统奥巴马、他的妻子米歇尔以及他们两位美丽的女儿表达最美好的祝愿。
今晚,我的内心充满感激。我要感谢副总统切尼以及白宫的每一位工作人员;我要感谢劳拉,是她带给了这个家庭无比的快乐,带给我爱;我要感谢两名优秀的女儿——巴巴拉和杰纳;我要感谢我的父母,他们树立的榜样为我的一生提供了动力。除此之外,还我要感谢所有美国人民给予我的信任。谢谢你们的祈祷让我斗志昂扬。在过去的八年时间里,你们给了我无穷的勇气和宽厚,我对此表示深深的感谢。
今晚,我的思绪重新回到2001年9月11日,当时我第一次在这里发表晚间演说。那天上午,恐怖分子对美国发动了自珍珠港事件以来最为严重的恐怖袭击,造成约3000人死亡。我清楚地记得,我三天后站在世贸大楼的残骸前,周围是夜以继日不停工作的救援人员。我记得我同那些穿过五角大楼浓烟密布的走廊进行救援的勇士们交谈,同那些93号航班英雄们的妻子和爱人们对话。我还记得阿勒内-霍华德,她将自己已经牺牲的儿子的警徽送给我,提示我们所失去的一切。直到现在,我都一直保存着他的徽章。
随着时光流逝,绝大多数美国人重新回到了911以前的生活状态。但我却从来没有。每天早上,我都会听取国家面临威胁的一个简报。那时我会发誓要尽我最大的努力来保证我们的安全。
在七年前,一个全新的机构——国土安全部正式成立了。美国的军队、情报机构以及联邦调查局都进行了改造,我们的国家使用最新的装备来监控恐怖分子的动向,冻结他们的财产并且粉碎他们的阴谋。和我们强有力的盟友一起,我们对恐怖分子以及他们的支持者宣战。阿富汗原来是一个塔利班政权包庇“基地”组织,妇女走在街头会遭到石头袭击的国家,但现在却成为了一个新兴的民主国家,它在与恐怖势力做斗争并且鼓励女孩们上学。伊拉克也从一个残暴的独裁政权,一个发誓与美国不共戴天的国家,变成为中东心脏地带的民主国家,变成为美国的朋友。
关于这些决策存在着一些合理的争论,但对于这些结果却没有任何争议。美国在过去的7年多时间里没有再在本土遭到过恐怖袭击,这要感谢那些日夜辛勤工作保卫我们安全的人,包括执法人员、情报分析人员、国土安全和外交官员,以及美国军队的男女士兵。
我们的国家非常幸运地拥有这样的国民,当我们的国家处在危险之中时,他们自愿起来保卫我们的国家。我非常珍视与这些无私的爱国者以及他们家人进行的会面,美国应该感谢你们。对于那些今晚正在聆听这次演讲的男女军人们,我想说的是:这个世界上再也没有比成为你们的总司令更让人感到荣幸了。
我们的军队目前正在进行的战争,广义上来看其实是两种不同体系之间的战争。一种是一小撮狂热分子要求人们完全臣服于压迫的意识形态,他们迫害妇女并且杀害那些和他不一样信仰的人。另外一种体系则建立在普世的民主基础上,自由和正义照亮了和平之路。
我们的国家正是在这种信念下诞生的。长期来看,倡导这种信念是保卫我们国民的唯一切实有效的方法。当人们生活在民主政治中,他们就不会选举出那些追随恐怖势力的领导人。当人们对未来充满希望,他们就不会选择放弃生命来发动暴力袭击。因此,美国一直在全世界倡导自由、人权和尊严。我们向那些新兴的民主政体提供支持,向艾滋病人提供药物让垂死的病人起死回生,让母亲和婴儿们免受疟疾的困扰。这个在自由基础上诞生的伟大国家,正带领全世界走向一个新时代,这个时代民主将属于所有的国家。
过去八年里,我们也努力地在国内扩张机会和希望。在全国,学生们现在可以在公立学校接受条件更好的教育;新的医疗福利政府让老人和残疾人更加安心;每一位纳税人的个人所得税降低;通过信心重建计划,那些吸毒者也找到了新的希望;人们脆弱的生命得到更好的保护;为老兵提供的资金保障几乎增加一倍;美国的空气、水源以及土地比以前更加清洁。
当繁荣遇到挑战时,我们采取了行动。在面临金融崩溃时,我们采取了决定性的措施来保卫经济。对于那些辛苦工作的家庭来说,这是一个非常艰难的时期,但是如果我们不采取行动,后果会更严重,所有的美国人都受到了影响。团结一心的美国人将通过坚定信心和辛勤的工作来使我们的经济再次走上成长之路。我们将向世界再次展示,美国自由企业制度的坚韧性。
和所有前任一样,我也经历过挫折,我也有一些失误。不过,我的行动总是以我们国家的最佳利益为出发点。我对的起自己的良心,采取了我认为是正确的措施。你们可能不同意我所作出的一些艰难决定,但是我希望,你们能认为,我是一位愿意作出艰难决定的总统。我们的国家在未来将面临更多的艰难选择,必须用一些指导性原则来指引我们的路线。
虽然我们的国家现在比七年前更为安全,但我们所面临的最严重威胁仍然是恐怖袭击。我们的敌人很有耐心,他们决心再次对我们发动袭击。美国没有试图挑起冲突或者作过任何导致冲突的错事。但我们有庄严的责任,必须负起责任。我们必须克服自满,必须保持决心,不能放松警惕。
与此同时,我们必须抱有信心和明确目的与世界进行接触。在面临海外威胁的情况下,人们很容易受到孤立主义的诱惑,但是我们必须抵制孤立主义和保护主义,撤退至我们的国境线内只会招来危险。在21世纪,国内的安全和繁荣取决于自由事业在海外的扩展。如果美国不领导自由事业,那么自由事业将没有领导者。
在我们应对这些挑战时,我们今晚还无法预测其它的挑战,美国必须保持道德上的纯洁。人们经常对你们谈起正义和邪恶,这可能使一些人感到不舒服,但是这个世界存在着正义和邪恶,两者之间不可能有妥协。无论何时何地,杀害无辜者来推动一种意识形态都是错误的,把人们从压迫和绝望中解放出来永远是正确的。美国必须为正义和真相说话。我们必须保卫它们,推进和平事业。
托马斯-杰斐逊总统曾写道:“我不缅怀过去的历史,而致力于未来的梦想。”在我即将离开他两个世纪前所居住的白宫时,我也持这种乐观的态度。美国是一个年轻的国家,富有活力,不断在成长和更新自己。即使是在最困难的时刻,我们也可以展望未来的前景。
我对美国的未来充满信心,因为我知道美国人民的性格,这是一个激发移民冒着失去所有东西的风险来追求自由梦想的国家,这是公民们在危险时刻表现平静、在遭受苦难时表现出同情心的国家。我们在身边可以看到这样的例子。我和劳拉今晚邀请了一些这样的人到白宫。
我们可以在托尼-里卡斯尼尔的身上看到美国的性格,这位校长在卡特里娜飓风的废墟上重建了他的学校。我们可以在胡利奥-梅迪纳看到这种性格,这位前犯人领导着一个基于信仰的项目来帮助犯人们重返社会。我们也可以在奥布里-麦克达德参谋军士身上看到这种性格,他冲入包围圈,营救出了三名海军陆战队战友。
我们在加州医生比尔-克里索夫身上看到了美国的这种性格,他的儿子纳塔恩作为一名海军陆战队队员在伊拉克献出了自己的生命。当我遇到克里索夫和他的家人时,他告诉我一些令我意想不到的消息:他告诉我,为了记念自己的儿子,他想加入海军医疗部门。这位好人已60岁,超过规定年龄的上限18年,但他所提出的例外申请获得了批准,他在过去一年一直在接受战场救治的训练。克里索夫中校今晚不能来到这里,因为他即将被部署至伊拉克,他将在那里帮助救护美军伤员,维护他为国牺牲的儿子所留下的遗产。
我们在这些公民身上看到我们国家最优良的品质:坚韧和抱有希望、有爱心和坚强。这些品质使我对美国有不可动摇的信心。我们曾面临危险和考验,未来还会有更多的危险和考验。但是借助于我们人民的勇气和我们对理想的信心,这个伟大的国家将永远不会疲倦、不会松懈,不会失败。
作为你们的总统为你们服务是我一生的荣耀,任期内有过好日子和艰难的日子,但我每天都被我们国家的伟大所鼓舞,为我们人民的善良所振奋。我对自己有机会代表我们所热爱的国家感到幸福,我将永远对自己是美国公民而感到荣耀,对我来说,这一身份比任何其它身份都有份量。
所以,我亲爱的美国同胞,让我最后一次对你们说:晚安。愿上帝保佑白宫和我们的下一位总统。愿上帝保佑你和我们这个美好的国家。
xiexiebang.com范文网【www.xiexiebang.com】
第五篇:布什告别演讲
布什09告别演说:中英双语对照演讲稿
http://www.xiexiebang.com 2009年01月16日 16:16 沪江英语
美国当地时间15日晚8时(北京时间16日上午9时),美国总统布什在白宫发表最后告别演说。据白宫官员透露,演说总长13分钟,共5页,布什称自己的总统任期为“在危机中取得重大成就”的时期。
Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President.The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequenceto Vice President Cheney and members of the Administration;to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life;to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna;to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime.And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me.I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits.And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity, and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.今天,我满怀感激之情,感谢我的副总统切尼以及我所有的政府成员。我还要感谢我的妻子劳拉和我的女儿芭芭拉,詹娜,是她们给我的生活带来了无尽的快乐和爱意。我感谢我的父母,是他们给予了我前进的动力。最重要的是,我感谢美国人民给予我的信任,我感谢你们给予我的勇气、宽容。
This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this houselaw enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.针对我的许多决策,有人对其合法性表示出怀疑。但是,当我们看到结果时这些人就不会再发出疑问了。在过去的七年多来,美国本土再也没有遭受过恐怖袭击。这要归功于那些日夜辛劳保护我们安全的人们:执法人员、情报分析员、国土安全人员、外交人员、以及美军的士兵们。
Our Nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger.I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families.America owes you a debt of gratitude.And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your Commander in Chief.受上帝的恩典,美国有这些愿意在国家危难之际挺身保护他人的公民。我非常珍惜美国可以拥有这些无私的爱国者及其家庭。美国感激你们。对于那些正在收听的演讲的美军士兵们来说,没有什么荣誉要比让你当上总司令还要崇高。
The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems.Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience, and marks unbelievers for murder.The other system is based on the conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.美军正在从事的战争从属于两种系统之间的冲突,而这两种系统又有天壤之别。在其中的一种系统中,一小撮狂热分子要求所有人都服从于他们所制定的暴虐的意识形态,这些人让妇女屈从,而对那些不相信他们暴政的人进行谋杀。而另一种系统则相信自由是上帝给予全世界的礼物,自由与正义是通往和平的道路。
This is the belief that gave birth to our Nation.And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens.When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror.When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism.So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights, and human dignity.We are standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria.And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.美国,正是基于这样的信念诞生的。从长远来看,推广这种理念是保护我们公民的唯一选择。当人们生活在自由之中时,他们就不愿再去选择那些追求恐怖活动的领导者。当人们对未来怀有希望时,他们就不会将自己的生命交给暴力和极端主义。环视全球,美国正在推动人类自由、人权及人的尊严的发展。我们同持有不同政见者以及年轻的民主国家同在,我们为挽救生命而提供治疗艾滋病的药物,我们避免母亲和自己的孩子染上疟疾。自由是美国成立的唯一基石,并且领导世界向一个自由普照全球的时代发展。
For eight years, we have also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home.Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools.A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled.Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes.The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based programs.Vulnerable human life is better protected.Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled.America's air, water, and lands are measurably cleaner.And the Federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.过去的八年,我们努力扩大美国人民所拥有的机会与希望。在美国,学生不断上进,以求符合公立学校更高的标准。对于老人和残疾人来说,一种新的医疗处方药福利令他们颇感舒心。每个纳税人缴纳了更少的税款。通过以信仰为基础的治疗项目,那些瘾君子和痛苦的人们找到了新希望。过去八年来的工作更好地保护了人脆弱的生命。对于退伍老兵的补助几乎增加了一倍。美国的一山一水都真切地变得更为干净。睿智的山姆-阿力拓、首席法官约翰-罗伯茨加入到联邦法院中。
When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them.Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy.These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted.All Americans are in this together.And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth.We will show the world once again the resilience of America's free enterprise system.当美国的繁荣遇到挑战时,我们勇敢地去面对。当金融危机发生时,我们采取果断措施来保护我们的经济。对于那些辛勤工作的家庭来说,这些都是十分艰难的时期。但是如果我们不采取行动的话,结果将会更为糟糕。所有的美国人都站在了一起。凭借着我们的决心和辛勤工作,我们将美国经济重新拉回到增长的车道上。我们将向世界再次展现美国自由企业制度的复兴。
Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks.There are things I would do differently if given the chance.Yet I have always acted with the best interests of our country in mind.I have followed my conscience and done what I thought was right.You may not agree with some tough decisions I have made.But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.正如所有前任总统一样,我也曾经历过挫折。如果可能的话,我会采取不一样的方式来应对这些措施。但是,我总是为国家利益的最大化来行动。你也许会不同意我所做出的一些决定,但我希望你能理解我是愿意采取这些措施的。
The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.未来的几十年,美国将面对更多的艰难抉择,而有一些指导性原则可以塑造我们的道路。
While our Nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack.Our enemies are patient and determined to strike again.America did nothing to seek or deserve this conflict.But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them.We must resist complacency.We must keep our resolve.And we must never let down our guard.尽管我们的国家要比7年前更为安全,但目前美国最严峻的威胁仍然是另一场恐怖袭击。我们的敌人十分耐心,并且决心要再次发动袭击。美国没有故意挑起冲突。但是我们肩负着庄严的责任,必须同恐怖主义作斗争。我们不能骄傲自满,我们要坚定决心,我们绝不能放松警惕。
At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose.In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward.But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism.Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger.In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad.If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.与此同时,我们必须带着信心和清晰的目标参与世界事务。面对来自海外的威胁,在国内寻求安慰是一种诱人的举措。但是我们必须拒绝孤立主义与保护主义。退缩只会找来危险。在21世纪,国内的安全和繁荣需要依靠国外自由的扩展。如果美国不领导自由事业,那么自由事业就将无所适从。
As we address these challengesAmerica must maintain our moral clarity.I have often spoken to you about good and evil.This has made some uncomfortable.But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two there can be no compromise.Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere.Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right.This Nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth.We must always be willing to act in their defense and to advance the cause of peace.一方面我们在处理这些眼前和未来的挑战,另一方面美国必须保持自己在道义上的明确性。我经常谈及善恶问题,这令一些人颇感不适。但是目前这个世界确实存在着善恶双方,而且双方之间无法达成妥协。通过谋杀无辜来宣扬某种意识形态无论在何时何地都是错误的。将人们从压迫与绝望中解救出来是永远正确的。美国必须坚持为正义与真理而呼喊,我们必须保护正义与真理,并且推动和平事业的发展。
President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism.America is a young country, full of vitality, constantly growing and renewing itself.And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.托马斯-杰斐逊曾写到:“相比于过去的历史,我更喜欢未来的梦想。”随着我马上要离开白宫,我赞同杰斐逊这样的乐观精神。美国是一个年轻的国家,充满了活力,不断发展与更新。即便在最艰难的时候,美国仍然没有放弃对未来的梦想。
I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people.This is a Nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom.This is a Nation where citizens show calm in times of danger and compassion in the face of suffering.We see examples of America's character all around us.And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.我了解我们民族的特质,因此我也相信美国的明天会更美好。这是一个鼓励移民们为自由的梦想而去尝试一切事情的国家,这是一个在面对危险使仍然镇定的国家,这是一个面对苦难仍抱有同情心的国家。我们在身边的每一个人身上都可以看到美国的特征。今晚,受我和夫人劳拉的邀请,一切代表也来到了白宫。
We see America's character in Dr.Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society.We see it in Staff Sergeant Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.我们看到里卡斯钠博士的美国特质,这位校长在卡特里娜飓风的废墟中开办一所新的特许学校。我们看到麦地那身上的美国特质,这位前囚犯带领一个以信仰为基础的项目,帮助囚犯重回社会。我们在上士麦达德身上的美国特质,他负责伊拉克的一次埋伏并拯救了三名同伴的海军陆战队队员。
We see America's character in Bill Krissoff, a surgeon from California.His son Nathan, a Marine, gave his life in Iraq.When I met Dr.Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son.This good man was 60 years old – 18 years above the age limit.But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine.Lieutenant Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America's wounded warriors and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.我在外科医生克里索夫身上看到了美国人民的伟大个性。克里索夫的儿子,一名海军,在伊拉克光荣地献出了自己的生命。当我见到克里索夫和他家人的时候,他告诉了我一个惊人的消息:他告诉我,为了缅怀儿子,他希望加入美国海军医疗团。克里索夫已经60岁了,超过了年龄限制,但是他的申请得到了批准。在过去的一年中,克里索夫接受了良好的训练,但已经荣升少校的他今晚不能来到这里,他很快就会前往伊拉克,在那里他可以救助我们受伤的勇士并继续他儿子为完成的事业。
In citizens like these, we see the best of our country – resilient and hopeful, caring and strong.These virtues give me an unshakable faith in America.We have faced danger and trial, and there is more ahead.But with the courage of our people and confidence in our ideals, this great Nation will never tire „ never falter „ and never fail.同时,从美国公民身上,我看到了我们国家优秀的一面-我们的国家充满关怀和希望,这样的优点令我对国家有着坚贞的信念。我们面临着危险和审判,而且在未来我们仍将需要应对更多的挑战。然而,依靠你们的勇气和信心,伟大的美国永远会稳如磐石,从来不会走向没落。
It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as your President.There have been good days and tough days.But every day I have been inspired by the greatness of our country and uplifted by the goodness of our people.I have been blessed to represent this Nation we love.And I will always be honored to carry a title that means more to me than any other: citizen of the United States of America.对我来说,能够担任你们的总统,是我一生的荣耀。我有过欢乐也有过困苦。但是,每天我都会受到伟大祖国的鼓舞,并且我也一直在为我们的国家祈祷。在以后的时光里,我会永远珍视这样一段话:美利坚合众国的公民。
And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night.May God bless this house and our next President.And may God bless you and our wonderful country.我亲爱的同胞们,我的演说就到这里了,晚安!愿上帝保佑奥巴马!愿上帝保佑你和我们美好的国家!
演说全文摘要:
关于权力移交
五天以后,世界将再次见证美国民主制度的活力。从立国之日起,我们就秉承着一个传统——前任总统的接班人,必须由你们——美国人民选举产生。对于站在国会前的宣誓者来说,他的故事兑现了这块土地的不朽承诺。对于我们整个国家而言,那个时刻充满希望和骄傲。在此,我和所有美国人民一起,向候任总统奥巴马先生,她的妻子米歇尔女士,以及他们的一双美丽女儿致以最美好的祝愿。
关于感激
今晚,我的心中充满感恩之情。我感激人民曾经给予的信任,感激那些曾经让我振奋心智的祝福。我还感谢在过去八年中,我曾经无数次目睹的你们那些勇敢、慷慨与高尚的行为。
关于反恐战争
今晚,我的思绪再次回到了2001年9月11日后我首次在此向你们讲话时的情景。那天早上,恐怖分子夺去了将近3000个生命,我们遭受到了自珍珠港事件以来最惨重的袭击。
时过境迁,如今,多数美国人已经大致恢复了911之前的生活。但是我没有。每天早上,我都会收到一份关于国家安全的简报,并且我一直在尽一切努力保障我们的安全。
在过去的7年里,我们建立了一个崭新的国土安全部。美国的军队,情报机关和联邦调查局也已经改头换面。我们的国家有了新的工具监视恐怖分子的活动,冻结他们的资金,挫败他们的阴谋。而且,在我们盟友的有力支援下,我们主动出击与恐怖分子和他们的支持者战斗。
关于这些政府这些行为的合法性,人们有很多的讨论;但是这些行为的成就是毋庸置疑的。在过去的7年多里,美国再也没有遭到像911一样的恐怖袭击。这个成就,是对那些为保卫我们安全为鞠躬尽瘁的人们——执法官员,情报人员,国土安全和外交人员以及美国三军将士的最高褒奖。
当人们生活在自由之中时,他们不会心甘情愿地让鼓吹恐怖者骑在头上;当人们对未来生活有幸福憧憬时,不会把他们的生命出卖给暴力和极端。因此,美国在全世界致力于提升人的自由、人的权利以及人的尊严。我们支持世界各地的持不同政见者和年轻的民主活动者,我们向世界各地提供艾滋病药物将病人从死神手中夺回,我们还在挽救那些罹患疟疾的妇女和儿童。当我们这个伟大的共和国诞生时,她与自由独行;现在,她站在一个新时代的入口,指引着所有国家走向自由。
关于国内成就
八年来,我们也一直在为扩大国内的机会和希望殚精竭虑。在美国的各个角落,越来越多的学生开始在公立学校接受更高水平的教育;新的医疗保险制度让老年人和身体有缺陷者后顾无忧;每一个纳税者的个人所得税负担都得到减轻;吸毒者从各种基于信念的戒毒项目中获得新生。人的生命脆弱,但是在美国得到了更好的保护。我们的退伍军人基金已经翻番,美国的空气、水和土地更为清洁。最高联邦法院也注入了更新鲜的智慧,如大法官山姆-艾利托和大法官约翰-罗伯特。
关于错误决策
和那些曾在椭圆办公室工作过的前任总统一样,制定决策时我也经历过一些挫折。如果再给我一次机会,我会做出不同的决定。但是我一直都是在保护国家利益这一信念下行动。我跟随着良知,做我认为是正确的事情。你们可能不同意我所做的一些严苛决定,但是我希望你们知道,我是自愿做出那些决定的。
关于美国面临的挑战
今后几十年,我们国家将面临更艰难的抉择。有一些原则可以指导我们制定方针。
尽管我们现在比7年之前更加安全,但是美国人民面临的最大威胁仍是另外一场恐怖袭击。我们的敌人颇具耐心,他们已决定将再次发动袭击。美国没有做任何事情去自寻麻烦,也没有做任何事情应得到这种报应。但是我们被赋予了庄严的职责,我们必须面对。我们必须抵制自满情绪;我们必须坚守决心;我们永远不能放松警惕。
与此同时,我们要继续充满信心和明确方向地参与世界事务。当面临外来威胁时,一个国家可能会倾向于孤立封闭以自寻安慰。但是我们必须抵制孤立主义和它的伴生物,贸易保护主义。在国境线内畏缩不前只会招致危险。在21世界,国内的安全与繁荣有赖于自由在世界的扩张。如果美国人不领导世界的自由事业,那么自由事业将无人领导。
当我们谈及这些看的见挑战,以及那些看不见的挑战时,美国必须保持道德上的清白。我经常讲到善恶之分。这可能使某些人感到不愉快。但是善与恶是在世界上真实存在的,而且,两者之间没有妥协。
关于美国的前途
即使在最黑暗的时刻,我们也抬起眼睛遥望着广阔的地平线。我对美国的前途充满信心。因为我知道我们人民的品性。这个国度,激励着远道而来的移民为了自由梦而甘冒一切风险。这个国度的人民,能够在危险面临保持冷静,能够在苦难之中充满激情。这些优点,让我对美国有不可动摇的信念。我们面临着危险和考验,而且未来路途一样多舛。但是有我们人们的勇敢,有我们对信仰的信心,这个伟大的国家永远不会疲惫,永远不会退缩,永远不会失败。
各位同胞:在过去的八年间作为你们的总统,是我的荣幸。新世纪的第一个十年,是重要的十年——一个与众不同的十年。
今晚,怀着感恩之心,请允许我在这最后的机会分享一些想法,一些有关总统历程和国家未来的想法。
五天之后,世界将目击美国民主的一个重要时刻。按照建国伊始的传统,总统之职将传递给你们——美国人民选择的继任者。这位即将站在国会台阶上的人,他的故事正彰显了我们这块土地所延续的承诺。
对我们整个国家来说,这是一个充满希望与自豪的时刻。我与全体美国人民一道,对候任总统奥巴马、他的妻子米歇尔和他们那一双美丽的女儿,致以最美好的祝愿。
今晚,让我表达对副总统切尼和内阁成员的感激之情;我还要感谢劳拉(译者注:布什的夫人),是你为我们的家庭带来欢乐,为我的生活带来爱;还要感谢我们的女儿,芭芭拉和詹纳;以及我的父母――是他们的榜样为我提供了一生的力量。
而最重要的,我要感谢你们――美国人民,感谢你们给予我的信任。感谢你们的祈祷,它振奋着我的灵魂。感谢在过去八年间我所见证过的,无以计数的勇气、慷慨、和仁爱。今晚,我的思绪回到2001年9月11日,我第一次在这里向全国发表讲话。
那个早上,恐怖分子在那次自珍珠港事件以来,美国所遭受过的最严重的袭击中夺去了近3000名美国人民的生命。我记得三天后,我站在世贸中心的废墟之中,身边是加班加点连续作战的救援人员。
我记得与那些穿越五角大楼浓烟的勇士们的对话,以及与93航班上殉难英雄们的妻子或丈夫们的交谈。
我记得艾琳•霍华德。她把她逝去的儿子的警徽送给我。那个警徽提示我们所有失去的记忆――我至今仍然随身携带他的徽章。
随着时间的逝去,大多数美国人能够恢复到9.11之前的正常生活中去。但我不能。每天早上,我都会收到一份对我国威胁状况的简报。我发誓尽我的一切力量保卫美国的安全。
在过去的八年间,一个新的部门——国土安全部成立了。军队、情报部门、FBI都发生了改观。
我们的国家掌握了新的手段来监视恐怖分子的活动、冻结他们的财务、打破他们的图谋。而有坚强的盟友与我们一道,我们对恐怖分子和他们的支持者宣战。
阿富汗,从一个塔利班袒护基地组织、妇女当街遭乱石致死的国家,转变为一个对抗恐怖主义、支持女孩子们走进校门的年轻民主国家。
伊拉克从一个残酷的独裁国家、美国的宿敌,转变为位于中东心脏的阿拉伯民主国家,和美国的朋友。对于这些决策进行辩论是完全合理的,但其结果是不可辩驳的。
在过去的七年间没有发生一起在美国土地上的恐怖袭击活动。这是那些夜以继日保障我们安全者的功劳——执法官员、情报分析员、国土安全与外交人士,和美国武装部队中服役的男女士兵。
这些在危难时志愿保卫我们国家的公民是美国之福。我记忆中珍藏着与这些无私的爱国者,以及他们的家人的见面的情景。美国感谢你们。
对于今晚正在收听讲话的部队中的男女士兵,我要说:没有比作为你们的最高统帅更荣耀的事了。我们的战士所进行的战争,在广义上,是这样两个截然不同的体系间的斗争。在一个体系中,是一小撮狂热分子,追求对一种压迫性的意识形态的绝对服从;女性只能屈从附属;异教徒遭到谋杀。
而另一个系统是基于这样的信念:自由是全能的上帝赐予我们的普世礼物;自由与公证将点亮通往和平之路。我们的国家正是诞生于这样的信仰之中。而从长远来看,只有发扬这样的信仰,才能实实在在保护我们公民的安全。
当人们生活在自由中,他们不会去选择那些发动恐怖战争的领袖。当人们对未来充满希望时,他们不会令生活向暴力与极端主义俯首。因此在世界范围内,美国推崇人类自由、人权与尊严。
我们与持不同政见者和年轻的民主力量并肩作战;我们提供艾滋病药品挽救垂危的病人;我们挽救患疟疾的母亲与婴儿。我们这个与自由共同降生的伟大共和国,正引领世界走向一个自由属于所有国家的新时代。
在过去的八年间,我们还努力在美国本土扩展机会和希望。在美国各地,公立学校的学生们获得提升,达到更高的标准。
一个新的医疗福利计划让老年人和残障人士无后顾之忧。每位纳税人的所得税更低。瘾君子与其他处在痛苦中的人士从基于信仰的组织中找到新希望。人类脆弱的生命获得了更好的保护。安置退伍老兵的资金几乎倍增。美国的空气、水与土地更清洁。睿智的新法官,如山姆•阿利托法官和约翰•罗伯茨首席法官加入联邦法院。
当影响美国繁荣的挑战出现时,我们直面之。当面对金融崩溃的前景时,我们采取果断措施,保卫我们的经济。
对于那些努力工作的家庭来说,这一时刻相当艰难。但如果我们不采取任何行动的话,情况会糟糕得多。对此,全美国凝聚在一起。信念、苦干和团结,将让我们把经济重新带回增长的轨道。
我们会再次向世界展示美国自由企业系统的韧性。如同所有我的前任一样,我也经历过挫折。如果还能有机会,有些事我会做出不同的选择。然而,我始终是以我们国家的利益为考虑标准。我跟随良知的指引,做我认为正确的选择。
你可能不同意我曾经做出的一些强硬的决定。但是我希望你能相信,那是出自我的真实意愿。未来的十年里,我们将面临更多的艰难抉择,我们应该有一些原则来决定我们的方针政策。
虽然我们的国家比七年前更加安全,但恐怖袭击依然是我们面临的最大威胁。我们的敌人极富耐心地等待下一次袭击。美国人本不应该承受这种灾难。但是我们有责任,也必须去面对这些威胁。我们要避免自满,我们要坚定决心,我们决不能放松警惕。
同时,我们还应该继续怀着自信和清晰的目标来参与世界各地的事务。面对来自外面的威胁,人们很容易畏缩不前。但是我们必须杜绝孤立主义和保护主义,闭门造车无异于玩火自焚。在21世纪里,一个国家的稳定和繁荣,取决于整个世界的自由进程。如果美国不能引导自由,那就没有人可以做到。
当我们谈论这些问题的时候——还有那些我们今晚无法预测的问题——美国人必须保持明确的道德性。我曾经无数次地跟你们讨论过善与恶。这个话题可能过于沉重,但世界上的确是善恶并存,并且没有妥协。
依靠残害无辜来推进意识形态在任何时候、任何地方都是错误的。将人们从压迫和绝望中解救出来才是正确的。这个国家必须继续宣扬真理和正义。我们要继续坚持推进和平。
托马斯·杰斐逊总统曾经写道:“我不缅怀过去的历史,而致力于未来的梦想。”当我要离开两个世纪前他住过的这座建筑的时候,我希望能够与你们分享这种乐观。美国是个年轻的国家,充满活力,不断成长,不断创新。即使在最艰难的时刻,我们仍昂首望着远方。
我对美国的承诺充满信心,因为我知道美国人的精神。
这是一个能够激励移民冒所有的风险来追求自由的国家。这是一个人民在危机中仍保持镇静,在痛苦中仍怀有同情的国家。我们周围都是这样的人。
今晚,劳拉和我邀请了一些人来白宫加入我们。我们在托尼·雷卡斯纳尔博士身上看到了美国精神,他在卡特里娜飓风的废墟中建立起一座崭新的学校。我们在胡里奥·梅迪纳身上看到了美国精神,他出狱后怀着信仰,领导了一个帮助犯人重返社会的帮助计划。
我们在奥布里·麦克戴德身上看到了美国精神,他在伊拉克勇闯敌阵救出了三个战友。我们在比尔·克里索夫身上看到了美国精神,这位来自加利福尼亚的外科医生,他的儿子牺牲在了伊拉克的战场。
当我见到克里索夫医生和他的家人时,他告诉我一个令人惊异的消息:为了纪念他的儿子,他希望加入海军医疗队。这位老人已经60岁了——比参军年龄上限大了整整18岁。但是他的请求被允许了,过去几年里他一直在战地医院接受培训。克里索夫海军少校今天无法来到现场,因为他马上就要开赴伊拉克,在那里,他将帮助受伤的勇士们,并以此来纪念他的儿子。在这些美国人的身上,我们看到了我们国家的精髓——百折不挠而又充满希望,心存善良而又生性坚强。
这些美德使得我对美国的信心不可动摇。我们经历了危机与考验,而前方还会有诸多凶险。但是有了我们的勇气和信念,这个伟大的国家将不知疲倦……毫不犹豫……永不言败。我很荣幸有生之年能够成为总统,我体会过快乐,也经历过艰难。
但是每天我都为这个伟大的国家和善良的人民所振奋。我非常幸运地能够代表这个我们深爱的国家。我将永远为这个对我意味着更多的头衔而感到骄傲:美利坚合众国公民。
所以,美国人民,在这最后的时刻:晚安。愿上帝保佑下一任总统。愿上帝保佑我们和这个美丽的国家。