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O God, help me to win, but in thy wisdom if thou willest me not to win, then O God, make me a good loser.
Robert Baden-Powell
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes humility in both victory and defeat, seeking guidance from a higher power.

In this quote, Robert Baden-Powell expresses a desire for divine assistance in achieving success, but he also shows maturity by acknowledging that sometimes success may not be granted. He requests the ability to accept loss gracefully, highlighting the importance of humility and character in all outcomes, whether winning or losing.

Themes

WinLossHumilityGraceCharacter

In practice

Example use cases

A coach might use this quote with the team after a tough game to emphasize the importance of respecting the outcome.

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The method of instruction in Scouting is that of creating in the boy the desire to learn for himself.
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Success in training the boy depends largely on the Scoutmaster's own personal example.
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Football is a grand game for developing a lad physically and also morally, for he learns to play with good temper and unselfishness, to play in his place, and to play the game, and these are the best of training for any game of life.
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Life would pall if it were all sugar; salt is bitter if taken by itself; but when tasted as part of the dish, it savours the meat. Difficulties are the salt of life.
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A little wisdom, now and then

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