But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate – we cannot consecrate – we cannot hallow this ground. the brave men, living and dead, who struggled here have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. which point is lincoln trying to make? people cannot build upon the land, because it is considered sacred. it is up to the people to mark the importance of the land. because so many people died, the land cannot be considered sacred. the sacrifices of the soldiers have already made the land sacred.