And oft, though wisdom wake, suspicion sleeps At wisdom's gate, and to simplicity Resigns her charge, while goodness thinks no ill Where no ill seems.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the idea that wisdom often yields to simplicity and goodness, leading to a state of trust and innocence.
John Milton highlights the interplay between wisdom and simplicity, suggesting that when wisdom is present, it often allows suspicion to rest. In times where goodness prevails, it engenders an atmosphere of trust and innocence, where people do not assume ill intentions when none are apparent. This quote invites reflection on the importance of having a trusting perspective in our interactions with others.
In practice
This quote can be included in a speech about the importance of trust in relationships.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
Would I rather be right, or would I rather be kind?
Ignorance is a cure for nothing.
At the risk of appearing predictable, the Bible was and remains the biggest influence on my thinking. I was raised reading it, memorizing passages from it and being guided by it. I still find it a source of wisdom, comfort and encouragement.
originality and a feeling of one's own dignity are achieved only through work and struggle.
The search for the truth is the most important work in the whole world - and the most dangerous.
The business (and person) who tries to be everything to everyone ends up being nothing to anyone.
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