The true secret of giving advice is, after you have honestly given it, to be perfectly indifferent whether it is taken or not, and never persist in trying to set people right.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True happiness can be found in the simple and ordinary aspects of life.
This quote emphasizes that happiness is not derived from grand achievements or material possessions, but rather from the ability to appreciate and find joy in everyday occurrences. Henry Ward Beecher encourages individuals to recognize the beauty and happiness that can be discovered in common experiences, suggesting that a shift in perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Themes
HappinessCommon ThingsGratitudePerspectiveJoy
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about mindfulness, you could quote this to illustrate the importance of appreciating small joys.
More from Henry Ward Beecher
All quotes βA man who cannot get angry is like a stream that cannot overflow, that is always turbid. Sometimes indignation is as good as a thunderstorm in summer, clearing and cooling the air.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
No one can deal with the hearts of men unless he has the sympathy which is given by love.
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We are always on the anvil; by trials God is shaping us for higher things.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
No man can tell if he is rich or poor by turning to his ledger. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
There are joys which long to be ours. God sends ten thousands truths, which come about us like birds seeking inlet; but we are shut up to them, and so they bring us nothing, but sit and sing awhile upon the roof, and then fly away.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
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