Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It is better to have something valuable that has imperfections than to have something worthless that is perfect.
This quote by Confucius highlights the value of quality over superficial perfection. It suggests that it is preferable to possess something meaningful, even if it has flaws, rather than settling for something that is perfect but lacks substance or value.
Themes
DiamondFlawPebbleValueImperfection
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about accepting personal imperfections.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
ConfuciusRead
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Strongest minds are often those whom the noisy world hears least.
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Doing what's right isn't the problem. It is knowing what's right.
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