We evaluate others with a Godlike justice, but we want them to evaluate us with a Godlike compassion.
Sydney J. HarrisRead
A person is either himself or not himself; is either rooted in his existence or is a fabrication; has either found his humanhood or is still playing with masks and roles and status symbols. And nobody is more aware of this difference (although unconsciously) than a child. Only an authentic person can evoke a good response in the core of the other person; only person is resonant to person.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity in a person's identity and interactions with others.
In this quote, Sydney J. Harris explores the concept of authenticity, suggesting that individuals face a critical choice between being true to themselves or adopting superficial roles defined by societal expectations. He highlights the idea that children naturally perceive authenticity, which underscores that genuine connections can only be made between true selves, allowing for meaningful interactions and deeper understanding between people.
Themes
AuthenticityIdentitySelfGenuineExistence
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about self-acceptance and authenticity.
More from Sydney J. Harris
All quotes →The commonest fallacy among women is that simply having children makes them a mother - which is as absurd as believing that having a piano makes one a musician.
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Man's unique agony as a species consists in his perpetual conflict between the desire to stand out and the need to blend in.
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"Terrorism" is what we call the violence of the weak, and we condemn it; "war" is what we call the violence of the strong, and we glorify it.
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At it's highest level, the purpose of teaching is not to teach—it is to inspire the desire for learning. Once a student's mind is set on fire, it will find a way to provide its own fuel.
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You may be sure that when a man begins to call himself a realist he is preparing to do something that he is secretly ashamed of doing.
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