And as I ask for your forgiveness, I also ask for your support to keep all things in perspective and keep all things in proportion. The good of nine years versus the bad.

John Rowland’s quote reflects his request for both forgiveness and support in the face of personal or public mistakes. He emphasizes the need to keep things in perspective by balancing the good and bad aspects of his past, specifically highlighting the nine years of positive achievements in contrast to any negative actions or outcomes. Rowland seems to be asking for an understanding of his actions and seeking a more holistic view of his contributions, urging people to focus on the overall picture rather than just the flaws.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Rowland’s experience as a public figure, specifically his time as the Governor of Connecticut. Rowland resigned in 2004 after being implicated in a corruption scandal. In the aftermath, he sought forgiveness from the public and his supporters. This quote represents his acknowledgment of the wrongdoings while attempting to remind people of the broader, more positive aspects of his career and service.

By asking for both forgiveness and support, Rowland acknowledges that his mistakes were significant, but he also calls for a balanced evaluation of his life and work. The phrase "the good of nine years versus the bad" is a plea to weigh his overall legacy, suggesting that his years of service and positive contributions should not be overshadowed entirely by his mistakes.

Ultimately, Rowland’s quote speaks to the human desire for redemption and understanding, particularly when one’s flaws are on public display. It reflects his belief that people should strive to assess situations and individuals with a sense of balance, looking at both the positive and negative aspects of one’s actions in order to maintain perspective.