To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Experience keeps a dear school, but fools will learn in no other, and scarce in that; for it is true we may give advice, but we cannot give conduct.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True learning comes from experience, and not everyone heeds wise advice.
This quote emphasizes the importance of personal experience as the most effective teacher. Benjamin Franklin suggests that while advice can be offered, actual learning and proper behavior often depend on one's own experiences, and not everyone will take the lessons to heart.
Themes
ExperienceLearningWisdomAdviceConduct
In practice
Example use cases
In a graduation speech, one might say, 'As Benjamin Franklin once said, experience keeps a dear school, reminding us to learn from our own journeys.'
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
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[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.
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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.
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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
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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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