We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
Where belief is painful we are slow to believe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Belief often struggles in the presence of discomfort or pain.
This quote by Ovid suggests that when belief brings about suffering or discomfort, we are hesitant to fully embrace it. It highlights the human tendency to shy away from beliefs that seem to cause more pain than comfort, indicating a psychological defense against emotional distress.
Themes
BeliefPainHesitationPsychologyEmotion
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about faith and its challenges in a support group.
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A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
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Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
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The end doesn't justify the means.
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