Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
That he who hath the loan of money has not repaid it, and he who has repaid has not the loan; but he who has acknowledged a kindness has it still, and he who has a feeling of it has requited it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Cicero suggests that financial transactions are temporary, but gratitude and kindness last longer.
This quote by Cicero reflects on the nature of debts and kindness. While monetary loans may be repaid, the acknowledgment and feeling of gratitude for a kindness remain with a person indefinitely. It emphasizes the enduring value of kind acts over material transactions, suggesting that emotional bonds and recognition of goodwill create lasting connections that surpass the fleeting nature of financial dealings.
Themes
KindnessGratitudeLoansDebtAcknowledgmentMoney
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of appreciation and kindness in our communities.
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