Nowhere is wisdom more necessary than in the guidance of charitable impulses. Meaning well is only half our duty; Thinking right is the other, and equally important, half.
Interpretation
Wisdom is essential in guiding our charitable actions, as good intentions alone are not sufficient.
This quote emphasizes the importance of not just having good intentions when it comes to charitable acts, but also the necessity of thoughtful consideration and wisdom in how we implement these impulses. Samuel Gridley Howe argues that understanding the implications and consequences of our charitable actions is as crucial as the desire to help, highlighting the dual responsibility of thinking correctly and acting with kindness.
In practice
In a speech about philanthropy, you could quote this to emphasize the importance of thoughtful giving.
if i have gained anything over these months, it is the knowledge there is no starting over - only living with the mistakes you've made. but then, caleb taught me long ago you can't build anything without some sort of foundation. maybe we learn to live our lives by understanding, firsthand, how not to live them.
An idea is a feat of association.
No persons are more frequently wrong, than those who will not admit they are wrong.
George Washington, as a boy, was ignorant of the commonest accomplishments of youth. He could not even lie.
The most exquisite paradox; as soon as you give it all up, you can have it all.
All good is born in prayer, and all good springs from it.
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