To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
To bear other people's afflictions, everyone has courage and enough to spare.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It takes courage to support others in their struggles, and many people possess that ability.
Benjamin Franklin's quote emphasizes the notion that while people often claim to be courageous, true courage is demonstrated when one chooses to bear the burdens and afflictions of others. It suggests that compassion and empathy are fundamental aspects of bravery, as many possess the inner strength to help those in need without hesitation.
Themes
CourageCompassionEmpathySupportStrength
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a speech about community service and supporting those in need.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Similar quotes
The period of debate is closed. Arms, as a last resource, must decide the contest.
Thomas PaineRead
In climbing, having confidence in your partners is no small concern. One climber's actions can affect the welfare of the entire team.
Jon KrakauerRead
We have got to dispel this myth that bullying is just a normal rite of passage.
Barack ObamaRead
'Blacks were too scared to do anything, but they came out to greet James Meredith': That would have been the story in the evening news if I hadn't gotten myself shot. I got shot, and that allowed the movement protest thing to take over then and do their thing.
James MeredithRead
The moment I understood this - that my Parkinson's was the one thing I wasn't going to change - I started looking at the things I could change, like the way research is funded.
Michael J. FoxRead
Our march to freedom is irreversible. We must not allow fear to stand in our way.
Nelson MandelaRead