I think that to have known one good, old man-one man, who, through the chances and mischances of a long life, has carried his heart in his hand, like a palm-branch, waving all discords into peace-helps our faith in God, in ourselves, and in each other more than many sermons
Interpretation
A virtuous person's life can inspire faith and unity among others.
The quote emphasizes the profound impact that a single noble individual can have on the faith and relationships of those around him. Through resilience and compassion, this person acts as a symbol of peace and strength, reminding us of the potential for goodness in humanity, which can be more influential than conventional teachings.
In practice
In a motivational speech highlighting the importance of leadership and moral integrity.
There is very little moral mixture in the 'Antislavery' feeling of this country. A great deal is abstract philanthropy; part is hatred of slaveholders; a great part is jealousy for white labor, very little is consciousness of wrong done and the wish to right it.
Reputation is favorable notoriety as distinguished from fame, which is permanent approval of great deeds and noble thoughts by the best intelligence of mankind.
The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose.
Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.
We will gradually become indifferent to what goes on in the minds of other people when we acquire a knowledge of the superficial nature of their thoughts, the narrowness of their views and of the number of their errors. Whoever attaches a lot of value to the opinions of others pays them too much honor.
The smaller the mind the greater the conceit.
It sounds plausible enough tonight, but wait until tomorrow. Wait for the common sense of the morning.
Wolves are disciplined not only when they hunt but also when they travel, when they play, and when they eat. Nature doesn't view discipline as a negative thing. Discipline is DNA. Discipline is survival.
We have to cultivate contentment with what we have. We really don't need much. When you know this, the mind settles down. Cultivate generosity. Delight in giving. Learn to live lightly. In this way, we can begin to transform what is negative into what is positive. This is how we start to grow up.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.