To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that while we may have a stable system in place, the only inevitable truths in life are death and taxes.
Benjamin Franklin's quote highlights the impermanence of human constructs and the certainty of certain aspects of life. He points out that although the Constitution seems to be functioning well and promises longevity, the only reliable certainties we face in life are death and taxes, reinforcing the idea that stability is often an illusion.
Themes
CertaintyLifeDeathTaxesConstitutionPhilosophyImpermanence
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of civic responsibility.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
All highly competent people continually search for ways to keep learning, growing, and improving. They do that by asking WHY. After all, the person who knows HOW will always have a job, but the person who knows WHY will always be the boss.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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