Women know the way to rear up children (to be just). They know a simple, merry, tender knack of tying sashes, fitting baby-shoes, and stringing pretty words that make no sense. And kissing full sense into empty words.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
And lips say “God be pitiful,” Who ne'er said “God be praised.”
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the tendency of people to seek mercy without showing gratitude.
In this quote, Elizabeth Barrett Browning critiques the hypocrisy of those who plead for mercy from God but fail to express gratitude or praise for the blessings they have. It serves as a reminder that appreciation is essential and that one should not only seek help in times of need but also acknowledge and celebrate the good in life.
Themes
GratitudeMercyPraiseHypocrisyFaith
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon about thankfulness, this quote can highlight the importance of recognizing and praising the good in life.
More from Elizabeth Barrett Browning
All quotes →She has seen the mystery hid Under Egypt's pyramid: By those eyelids pale and close Now she knows what Rhamses knows.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
First time he kissed me, he but only kissed The fingers of this hand wherewith I write; And, ever since, it grew more clean and white.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God: But only he who sees takes off his shoes.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
Our Euripides the human, With his droppings of warm tears, and his touchings of things common Till they rose to meet the spheres.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
Love me sweet With all thou art Feeling, thinking, seeing; Love me in the Lightest part, Love me in full Being.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
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