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It is the function of perfection to make one know one's imperfection.
Saint Augustine
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Perfection reveals our flaws and helps us recognize our limitations.

In this quote, Saint Augustine suggests that the pursuit of perfection is not just about achieving an ideal state but also about understanding our own shortcomings. The awareness of what perfection entails allows individuals to confront their imperfections and strive for growth and improvement, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in personal development.

Themes

PerfectionImperfectionSelf-AwarenessGrowthUnderstanding

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used during a personal development workshop to highlight the significance of acknowledging flaws.

More from Saint Augustine

The angels surround and help the priest when he is celebrating Mass.
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There is no health in those who are displeased by an element in Your creation, just as there was none in me when I was displeased by many things You had made. Because my soul didn't dare to say that my God displeased me, it refused to attribute to You whatever was displeasing.
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Bad times, hard times, this is what people keep saying; but let us live well, and times shall be good. We are the times: Such as we are, such are the times.
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Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord. The hairs of his head are easier by far to count than his feeling, the movements of his heart.
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Whatever skills I have acquired, whatever gifts I have been given, I place them at Your service.
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Everyone who observes himself doubting observes a truth, and about that which he observes he is certain; therefore he is certain about a truth. Everyone therefore who doubts whether truth exists has in himself a truth on which not to doubt.... Hence one who can doubt at all ought not to doubt the existence of truth.
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