Could I anticipate the enmity of those for whom I encountered such opposition? If they had been willing, I should have gained the victory. But the head faints when it is abandoned by the other members. If they had been wise they would have seen that in attacking me they were attacking their own privileges and serving princes to their own servitude.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the consequences of opposition and the folly of attacking one's own interests.
Thomas Becket's quote delves into the dynamics of conflict and cooperation, suggesting that when individuals or groups oppose others without understanding the bigger picture, they ultimately harm their own interests. Becket highlights how unity and wisdom are essential for true success, and that those who fail to see the interconnectedness of their actions risk serving oppressive powers at the expense of their own freedoms.
In practice
In a speech about collaborative efforts in the workplace, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of unity.
It is important that the Church of London, which has now lost its ruler, should receive for its new bishop a man whose personal merit, attainments in learning, and prudence in managing public business shall not be unworthy of the dignity of that see.
I am ready to die for my Lord, that in my blood the Church may obtain liberty and peace.
The more I loved the king, the more I opposed his injustice until his brow fell lowering upon me. He heaped calumny after calumny on my head, and I chose to be driven out rather than to subscribe.
Whosoever wisely examines the works of God will speedily discover what is next to be done.
The rashness of the persecutor hath overspread the rights of the persecuted so that punishment is awarded to him that has gained the victory, the inglorious triumphs, and the man who deserved bonds has carried off the prize.
In truth, we have delayed to pass sentence on the person of our lord the king, waiting, if perhaps he may, by God's grace, repent; but we will pass it ere long unless he does repent.
In life, unlike chess, the game continues after checkmate.
Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute.
From thee, great God, we spring, to thee we tend,- Path, motive, guide, original, and end.
The adult is the enemy of the child because of the awful process of civilizing this thing that, when it is born, is an animal with no manners, no moral sense at all.
Is not the very beginning of privilege, monopoly and industrial slavery this erecting of the ballot-box above the individual?
The Christian truth is attractive and persuasive because it responds to humanity's deepest needs.
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