Nature never appeals to intelligence until habit and instinct are useless. There is no intelligence where there is no need of change.
H. G. WellsRead
And I have by me, for my comfort, two strange white flowers - shriveled now, and brown and flat and brittle - to witness that even when mind and strength had gone, gratitude and a mutual tenderness still lived on in the heart of men.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the enduring qualities of gratitude and tenderness in the face of adversity.
In this poignant reflection by H. G. Wells, the author uses the imagery of two strange white flowers to symbolize the lasting presence of human emotions like gratitude and tenderness, even when physical vitality and mental strength have diminished. This suggests that, despite life's challenges and the inevitable decline we experience, the values of appreciation and mutual affection remain vital and provide comfort.
Themes
GratitudeTendernessComfortHumanityEmotions
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of gratitude during difficult times.
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