To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Little strokes fell great oaks.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant results over time.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the importance of persistence and gradual effort in achieving great things. Just as small strokes of a hammer can eventually bring down a large oak tree, consistent, small actions can lead to monumental accomplishments in life.
Themes
EffortPersistenceSuccessGrowthProgress
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to students who are struggling with their studies.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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Real wealth is ideas plus energy.
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I compare myself with my former self, not with others. Not only that, I tend to compare my current self with the best I have been, which is when I have been midly manic. When I am my present "normal" self, I am far removed from when I have been my liveliest, most productive, most intense, most outgoing and effervescent. In sort, for myself, I am a hard act to follow.
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Ignorance, poverty, and greed must disappear so that light can prevail in all places.
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Do not count your chickens before they are hatched.
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I do not preach doubtingly, for I do not live doubtingly.
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Happy are they that hear their detractions, and can put them to mending.
William ShakespeareRead