Avoid doing what you would blame others for doing.
Nothing is more active than thought, for it travels over the universe, and nothing is stronger than necessity for all must submit to it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Thought is the most dynamic force, influencing everything, while necessity is an unavoidable power that everyone must respect.
This quote by Thales emphasizes the profound impact of thought as a powerful agent that transcends physical boundaries, suggesting that our minds can reach and traverse the vastness of the universe. It also highlights the concept of necessity as an ultimate force that governs actions and decisions, illustrating how individuals cannot escape the influence of necessity in their lives, thus reinforcing the idea that while thoughts may be limitless, the realities we face are often defined by critical needs.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about overcoming challenges, you might use this quote to emphasize the power of thought in shaping our lives.
More from Thales
All quotes βWe live not, in reality, on the summit of a solid earth but at the bottom of an ocean of air
Necessity is the strongest of things, for it rules everything.
Hope is the only good that is common to all men; those who have nothing else possess hope still.
Time is the wisest of all things that are; for it brings everything to light.
All things are from water and all things are resolved into water.
Similar quotes
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The three wishes of every man: to be healthy, to be rich by honest means, and to be beautiful.
'Which is stronger, politics or love?' is like asking, 'Which is stronger, exhaling or inhaling?' They are two sides of the same thing.