Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No obligation to do the impossible is binding.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that one cannot be held accountable for something that is unattainable or unrealistic.
Marcus Tullius Cicero's quote suggests that individuals should not feel pressured or obligated to achieve the impossible. It speaks to the importance of understanding one’s limitations and recognizing that expectations must be realistic. The quote encourages people to focus on achievable goals rather than striving for the unattainable, which can lead to undue stress and disappointment.
Themes
ObligationImpossibleRealisticLimitationsGoals
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to remind the audience to set achievable goals.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes →Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
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No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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