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The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.
Charles Caleb Colton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Benevolence brings peace, while envy leads to torment.

This quote highlights the contrasting mental states of benevolence and envy. It suggests that benevolent individuals find solace and strength in the happiness of others, making it easier for them to handle their own difficulties. In contrast, envious individuals suffer not only from their misfortunes but also from witnessing the successes of others, leading to a constant state of distress. Ultimately, the quote promotes the idea that a benevolent mindset contributes to personal well-being and resilience.

Themes

BenevolenceEnvySerenityProsperityCalamity

In practice

Example use cases

Sharing this quote during a motivational speech about personal growth.

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There are three kinds of praise, that which we yield, that which we lend, and that which we pay. We yield it to the powerful from fear, we lend it to the weak from interest, and we pay it to the deserving from gratitude.
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