Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
It is madness to make fortune the mistress of events, because by herself she is nothing and is ruled by prudence.
Interpretation
Relying solely on luck is foolish; good judgment is essential for success.
This quote emphasizes the importance of prudence and wise decision-making in determining outcomes, rather than leaving events to chance or fortune. It suggests that while fortune can play a role, it is ultimately our rational choices that govern our destiny.
In practice
In a motivational speech about success, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of planning.
Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
Of no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
Ask nothing; want nothing in return. Give what you have to give; it will come back to you, but do not think of that now.
Do all the other things, the ambitious things - travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes...but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness.
If people find that controversial then I would just refer them to the Sermon on the Mount.
Find people not to envy but to admire. Do not the profitable but the admirable deed. Live by ideals.
If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.
Only puny secrets need protection. Big discoveries are protected by public incredulity.
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