Real excellence and humility are not incompatible one with the other, on the contrary they are twin sisters.
Jean-Baptiste Henri LacordaireRead
Neither genius, fame, nor love show the greatness of the soul. Only kindness can do that.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True greatness is measured by kindness, not by talent, recognition, or affection.
This quote suggests that the essence of a person's character and greatness is not defined by their intelligence, fame, or love they receive, but rather by their capacity for kindness. It implies that genuine virtue and the quality of one's soul are revealed in acts of compassion and empathy towards others.
Themes
KindnessGreatnessSoulPhilosophyCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for emphasizing the importance of kindness in a speech at a community service event.
More from Jean-Baptiste Henri Lacordaire
All quotes βIt is not genius, nor glory, nor love that reflects the greatness of the human soul; it is kindness.
Jean-Baptiste Henri LacordaireRead
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