If we like a man's dream, we call him a reformer; if we don't like his dream, we call him a crank.
William Dean HowellsRead
The conqueror is regarded with awe; the wise man commands our respect; but it is only the benevolent man that wins our affection.
Interpretation
True affection comes from benevolence, not just achievements or wisdom.
William Dean Howells emphasizes that while society may admire conquerors for their power and wise individuals for their intellect, it is the kindness and benevolence of a person that fosters genuine affection from others. This distinction highlights the importance of character and compassion in building meaningful relationships.
In practice
A speaker at a charity event might use this quote to highlight the importance of kindness in building community.
You are not a helpless victim of your own thoughts, but rather a master of your own mind.
If I cannot brag of knowing something, then I brag of not knowing it; at any rate, brag.
Every minute of every hour of every day you are making the world, just as you are making yourself, and you might as well do it with generosity and kindness and style.
But better to get hurt by the truth than comforted with a lie.
Meditation is like a gym in which you develop the powerful mental muscles of calm and insight.
Temporis ars medicina fere est._x000D_ _x000D_ Time is generally the best medicine.
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