The aspect of American society is animated, because men and things are always changing; but it is monotonous, because all the changes are alike.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
The Indian knew how to live without wants, to suffer without complaint, and to die singing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the ability to live simply, endure hardship gracefully, and embrace life until the end.
Alexis De Tocqueville highlights the profound wisdom of the Indian way of life, emphasizing a simplicity that prioritizes contentment over material desire, acceptance of suffering without grievance, and an attitude of joy even in death. This perspective encourages a deep appreciation for life, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from within rather than from external possessions or circumstances.
Themes
WisdomContentmentSimplicityLifeAcceptance
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about mindfulness at a wellness retreat.
More from Alexis De Tocqueville
All quotes βDemocratic communities have a natural taste for freedom: left to themselves they will seek it, cherish it, and view any deprivation of it with regret. But for equality their passion is ardent, insatiable, incessant, invincible: they call for equality in freedom; and if they cannot obtain that, they still call for equality in slavery.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Religion, which never intervenes directly in the government of American society, should therefore be considered as the first of their political institutions
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colours breaking through.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Grant me thirty years of equal division of inheritances and a free press, and I will provide you with a republic.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
When none but the wealthy had watches, they were almost all very good ones; few are now made which are worth much, but everybody has one in his pocket.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
Similar quotes
I learned that very often the most intolerant and narrow-minded people are the ones who congratulate themselves on their tolerance and open-mindedness.
Christopher HitchensRead
The Devil is in the details, but so is salvation.
Hyman RickoverRead
Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
Stephen CoveyRead
Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
William ShakespeareRead
I don't pretend we have all the answers. But the questions are certainly worth thinking about.
Arthur C. ClarkeRead
Sometimes it's necessary to go a long distance out of the way in order to come back a short distance correctly.
Edward AlbeeRead