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
Clever talk can confound the workings of virtue, just as small impatiences can confound great projects.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Clever words can mislead good intentions, while minor frustrations can derail significant plans.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the power of communication and the importance of patience in achieving meaningful goals. It suggests that while cleverness can sometimes mask true intentions or values, minor setbacks can disrupt larger ambitions if not managed wisely.
Themes
CommunicationPatienceIntentionProjectsVirtueSetbacks
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about leadership, one might use this quote to highlight the need for clarity in communication.
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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Is it so bad, then, to be misunderstood? Pythagoras was misunderstood, and Socrates, and Jesus, and Luther, and Copernicus, and Galileo, and Newton, and every pure and wise spirit that ever took flesh. To be great is to be misunderstood.
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