A good man would prefer to be defeated than to defeat injustice by evil means.
SallustRead
In my opinion, he only may be truly said to live and enjoy his being who is engaged in some laudable pursuit, and acquires a name by some illustrious action, or useful art.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True fulfillment comes from engaging in meaningful pursuits and contributing to society.
This quote by Sallust suggests that a fulfilling life is defined by one's engagement in honorable activities that lead to both personal satisfaction and societal contribution. It emphasizes that acquiring recognition and making a meaningful impact through one's actions or skills is essential for a truly enjoyable existence.
Themes
FulfillmentPurposeEngagementActionArtistryRecognition
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about finding passion in one's career.
More from Sallust
All quotes βProsperity tries the souls even of the wise.
SallustRead
He that will be angry for anything will be angry for nothing.
SallustRead
The glory that goes with wealth is fleeting and fragile; virtue is a possession glorious and eternal.
SallustRead
Most honorable are services rendered to the State; even if they do not go beyond words, they are not to be despised.
SallustRead
Small communities grow great through harmony, great ones fall to pieces through discord.
SallustRead
Similar quotes
Only as one is willing to give up his present limitations and identity can he become that which he desires to be.
Neville GoddardRead
The mature person perceives the fruitlessness of rigid, external methodologies; Remembering this, he keeps his attitude unstructured at all times and thus is always free to pursue the Integral Way. He studies the teachings of the masters. He dissolves all concepts of duality. He pours himself out in service to others.
LaoziRead
Words, for all they were flimsy and invisible, had great strength. They could be fortified as a castle wall and sharp as a foil. They could bite, slap, shock, wound. But unlike deeds, words couldn't really help you. No promise ever rescued a person; it was the carrying-through of it that brought about salvation.
Jodi PicoultRead
Answers are not obtained by putting the wrong question and thereby begging the real one.
Felix FrankfurterRead
Be yourself. The world worships the original.
Ingrid BergmanRead
Because I have confidence in the power of truth, and of the spirit, I have confidence in the future of mankind.
Albert SchweitzerRead