All the world knows me in my book, and my book in me.
Michel De MontaigneRead
There is indeed a certain sense of gratification when we do a good deed that gives us inward satisfaction, and a generous pride that accompanies a good conscience…These testimonies of a good conscience are pleasant; and such a natural pleasure is very beneficial to us; it is the only payment that can never fail. “On Repentance
Interpretation
What this quote means
Doing good deeds brings intrinsic satisfaction and a sense of pride.
This quote highlights the deep gratification that comes from performing good deeds, emphasizing that the pleasure derived from a clear conscience and moral integrity is invaluable. It asserts that this internal reward is a consistent source of joy and benefit, suggesting that the true 'payment' for our good actions is the emotional and ethical satisfaction they yield, rather than any external recognition or reward.
Themes
GratificationGood DeedConscienceSatisfactionPride
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about community service to inspire volunteers.
More from Michel De Montaigne
All quotes →All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.
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Pythagoras used to say that life resembles the Olympic Games: a few people strain their muscles to carry off a prize; others bring trinkets to sell to the crowd for gain; and some there are, and not the worst, who seek no other profit than to look at the show and see how and why everything is done; spectators of the life of other people in order to judge and regulate their own.
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There is not much less vexation in the government of a private family than in the managing of an entire state.
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Those who have compared our life to a dream were right... we were sleeping wake, and waking sleep.
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Such as are in immediate fear of a losing their estates, of banishment, or of slavery, live in perpetual anguish, and lose all appetite and repose; whereas such as are actually poor, slaves, or exiles, ofttimes live as merrily as other folk.
Michel De MontaigneRead
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