Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
Will DurantRead
Those who have suffered much become very bitter or very gentle.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Experiences of suffering can lead individuals to either become bitter or compassionate, depending on their response.
This quote by Will Durant suggests that suffering can have a profound effect on a person's character and outlook on life. Those who endure hardships often face a choice: they can let their pain embitter them, leading to discontent and negativity, or they can choose to become gentle and empathetic, using their experiences to cultivate kindness and understanding towards others. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative power of suffering in shaping our humanity.
Themes
SufferingBitterGentleCompassionChange
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about resilience, you might say, 'As Will Durant reminds us, those who have suffered much become either bitter or gentle.'
More from Will Durant
All quotes βThe greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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Where there's hope, there's life. It fills us with fresh courage and makes us strong again.
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