Slow but steady wins the race.
AesopRead
If you are a friend, why do you bite me so hard? If an enemy, why do you fawn on me?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the sincerity of one's intentions in a relationship, highlighting the complexity of trust and loyalty.
Aesop's quote reflects the perplexing nature of human relationships, particularly the conflicting behaviors that can exist between friends and enemies. It illustrates the confusion that arises when a person's actions seem to contradict their supposed role in one's life, prompting a deep examination of trust and the motivations behind interpersonal interactions.
Themes
FriendshipTrustRelationshipsLoyaltyBetrayal
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a discussion on trust and friendships.
More from Aesop
All quotes βWe often despise what is most useful to us.
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The haft of the arrow had been feathered with one of the eagle's own Lures. We often give our enemies the means of our own destruction.
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We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.
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The unhappy derive comfort from the misfortunes of others.
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Don't kill the goose that lays the golden egg.
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A friend is one with whom you are comfortable, to whom you are loyal, through whom you are blessed, and for whom you are grateful.
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There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you.
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