We call those poets who are first to mark, Through earth's dull mist the coming of the dawn, Who see in twilight's gloom the first pale spark, While others only note that day is gone.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Don't flatter yourselves that friendship authorizes you to say disagreeable things to your intimates. On the contrary, the nearer you come into relation with a person, the more necessary do tact and courtesy become.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True friendship requires kindness and consideration, even when you disagree.
This quote emphasizes that as friendships deepen, the expectation for tact and courtesy increases. While friends might feel comfortable expressing their thoughts freely, it is crucial to maintain respect and kindness in communication, ensuring that personal feelings do not harm the friendship.
Themes
FriendshipTactCourtesyRelationshipsCommunication
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about the importance of kindness in friendships.
More from Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
All quotes →Every real thought on every real subject knocks the wind out of somebody or other.
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