Man is so made that when anything fires his soul, impossibilities vanish.
Jean De La FontaineRead
It is good to be charitable; but to whom? That is the point. As to the ungrateful, there is not one who does not at last die miserable.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Charity should be given wisely to those who appreciate it; the ungrateful ultimately suffer.
This quote from Jean De La Fontaine emphasizes the importance of discernment in acts of charity. While being charitable is inherently good, the effectiveness of such acts diminishes when directed towards those who do not appreciate or reciprocate kindness. La Fontaine suggests that ungratefulness not only undermines the virtue of generosity but also leads to a miserable existence for those who refuse to acknowledge the help they receive.
Themes
CharityGratitudeKindnessAppreciationWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a charity event to encourage prudent giving.
More from Jean De La Fontaine
All quotes →In everything one must consider the end.
Jean De La FontaineRead
Anyone entrusted with power will abuse it if not also animated with the love of truth and virtue, no matter whether he be a prince, or one of the people.
Jean De La FontaineRead
Let ignorance talk as it will, learning has its value.
Jean De La FontaineRead
Death never takes the wise man by surprise, he is always ready to go.
Jean De La FontaineRead
Everyone has his faults which he continually repeats: neither fear nor shame can cure them.
Jean De La FontaineRead
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