To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
You and I were long friends: you are now my enemy, and I am yours.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Friendships can turn into enmities, reflecting the complexity of human relationships.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin highlights the fragile nature of relationships, suggesting that close friends can become enemies due to conflicts or disagreements. It serves as a reminder of how quickly bonds can shift and the importance of valuing and nurturing friendships before they deteriorate.
Themes
FriendshipEnemyRelationshipsBetrayalConflict
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on resolving conflicts, you might refer to this quote to illustrate how friendships can sour.
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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... the friendship of worthless people has a bad effect (because they take part, unstable as they are, in worthless pursuits, and actually become bad through each other's influence). But the friendship of the good is good, and increases in goodness because of their association. They seem even to become better men by exercising their friendship and improving each other; for the traits that they admire in each other get transferred to themselves.
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Never forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours.
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