It is easy enough to praise men for the courage of their convictions. I wish I could teach the sad young of this mealy generation the courage of their confusions.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the value of embracing and understanding one's uncertainties rather than only celebrating clear convictions.
In this quote, John Ciardi reflects on the complexities of human beliefs and the importance of recognizing and accepting confusion as a part of personal growth. He expresses a desire to teach younger generations to have the courage to navigate their uncertainties, as opposed to merely applauding the confidence of those who hold strong, unwavering beliefs. This highlights a more nuanced understanding of courage that encompasses facing and questioning one's doubts.
In practice
During a motivational speech for graduates, this quote could be used to encourage them to embrace their uncertainties as they step into adulthood.
If a man means his writing seriously, he must mean to write well. But how can he write well until he learns to see what he has written badly. His progress toward good writing and his recognition of bad writing are bound to unfold at something like the same rate.
That is why Bias jested with those who were going through the perils of a great storm with him and calling on the gods for help: "Shut up," he said, "so that they do not realize that you are here with me.
Nothing is miserable unless you think it so; and on the other hand, nothing brings happiness unless you are content with it.
Theology asserts propositions that cannot be proven true; ideologues hold stoutly to a worldview despite being contradicted by what is generally accepted as reality. When ideology and theology couple, their offspring are not always bad but they are always blind. And there is the danger: voters and politicians alike, oblivious to the facts.
...Individualistic material progress and the desire to gain prestige by coming out on top have taken over from the sense of fellowship, compassion and community. Now people live more or less on their own in a small house, jealously guarding their goods and planning to acquire more, with a notice on the gate that says, 'Beware of the Dog.
Remember, purpose is about giving...All you can do with your life is to give it away in the service of others.
How we live is so different from how we ought to live that he who studies what ought to be done rather than what is done will learn the way to his downfall rather than to his preservation.
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