To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Before you consult your fancy, consult your purse.
Interpretation
Consider practicality and finances before indulging in desires.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the importance of being financially prudent. It suggests that before pursuing oneβs wishes or whims, one should first assess their financial situation, highlighting the need for balance between desires and responsibilities.
In practice
This quote could be shared during a financial planning seminar to emphasize the importance of budgeting.
To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
[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.
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.
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
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.
Principles have no real force except when one is well-fed.
It is not the cares of today, but the cares of tomorrow, that weigh a man down. For the needs of today we have corresponding strength given. For the morrow we are told to trust. It is not ours yet. It is when tomorrow's burden is added to the burden of today that the weight is more than a man can bear.
Peter had a genius for imitation; but he lacked true genius, which is creative and makes all from nothing.
Everything deep is also simple and can be reproduced simply as long as its reference to the whole truth is maintained. But what matters is not what is witty but what is true.
My thing is this; if I'm sick enough to think it, then I'm sick enough to say it.
An ignorant man ages like an ox. His flesh may increase, but not his understanding.
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