To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Those who are content have enough; those that complain, have too much.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Contentment leads to true happiness, while complaints indicate dissatisfaction even with abundance.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin highlights the importance of contentment in achieving genuine happiness. It suggests that those who are satisfied with what they have, regardless of material possessions, feel fulfilled, while those who constantly complain often find themselves overwhelmed by their desires and perceived lack, even when they have plenty.
Themes
ContentmentHappinessComplaintAbundanceSatisfaction
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about mental health, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of gratitude.
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
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.
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
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Account no man happy till he dies.
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Surrounded by all the members of my dear family, enjoying the affection of numerous friends, who have never abandoned me, and possessing a sufficient share of all that contributes to make life agreeable, I lift my grateful eyes towards the Supreme Being and feel that I am happy.
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Authentic happiness is always independent of external conditions.
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Coarse rice to eat, water to drink, my bended arm for a pillow - therein is happiness. Wealth and rank attained through immoral means are nothing but drifting clouds.
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The only way to avoid being miserable is not to have enough leisure to wonder whether you are happy or not.
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