Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
There never was a great soul that did not have some divine inspiration.
Interpretation
Great individuals often draw from a source of inspiration that transcends the ordinary.
This quote suggests that throughout history, exceptional individuals, whom we might call 'great souls,' have always been driven or motivated by a higher sense of purpose or divine inspiration. Cicero implies that this inspiration is a fundamental component that distinguishes remarkable people from the rest, highlighting the importance of a deeper connection to something greater than oneself.
In practice
In a graduation speech, emphasizing the importance of pursuing oneβs passions as a source of inspiration.
Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
The most important thing I can tell you about aging is this: If you really feel that you want to have an off-the-shoulder blouse and some big beads and thong sandals and a dirndl skirt and a magnolia in your hair, do it. Even if you're wrinkled.
Common sense suits itself to the ways of the world. Wisdom tries to confirm to the ways of heaven.
He was marked out by his relentless ability to find fault with others' mediocrity - suggesting that a certain type of intelligence may be at heart nothing more or less than a superior capacity for dissatisfaction.
Integrity simply means not violating one's own identity.
Knowledge is not for knowing: knowledge is for cutting.
People who believe they have the power to exercise some measure of control over their lives are healthier, more effective and more successful than those who lack faith in their ability to effect changes in their lives.
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