The man who has sufficient power over himself to wait until his nature has recovered its even balance is the truly wise man, but such beings are seldom met with.
Giacomo CasanovaRead
I have met with some of them - very honest fellows, who, with all their stupidity, had a kind of intelligence and an upright good sense, which cannot be the characteristics of fools.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the complexity of intelligence and morality, suggesting that some individuals may possess wisdom despite appearing foolish.
Giacomo Casanova's quote emphasizes the idea that intelligence and honesty can exist alongside simplicity or ignorance. It highlights the notion that true wisdom is multifaceted, and individuals labeled as 'fools' may still hold valuable insights and moral integrity. The recognition of this duality encourages a deeper understanding of human nature and the potential for depth in seemingly ordinary individuals.
In practice
This quote can be used during a discussion on the different forms of intelligence.
The man who has sufficient power over himself to wait until his nature has recovered its even balance is the truly wise man, but such beings are seldom met with.
From that moment our love became sad, and sadness is a disease which gives the death-blow to affection.
The mind of a human being is formed only of comparisons made in order to examine analogies, and therefore cannot precede the existence of memory.
For my future I have no concern, and as a true philosopher, I never would have any, for I know not what it may be: as a Christian, on the other hand, faith must believe without discussion, and the stronger it is, the more it keeps silent.
I have had friends who have acted kindly towards me, and it has been my good fortune to have it in my power to give them substantial proofs of my gratitude.
Man is free; yet we must not suppose that he is at liberty to do everything he pleases, for he becomes a slave the moment he allows his actions to be ruled by passion.
There is no avoidance in delay.
A good intention clothes itself with sudden power. When a god wishes to ride, any chip or pebble will bud and shoot out winged feet, and serve him for a horse.
A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.
The farther you look back, the farther you can look ahead.
To observe and watch one's own mind is something really interesting. The untrained mind will run and follow its old habit patterns. Because it has not been trained and taught, it will get lost in all kinds of stories and issues. Therefore we have to train our mind. The meditation practice in Buddhism is all about training one's own mind.
Nothing doth more hurt in a state than that cunning men pass for wise.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.