Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Rashness belongs to youth; prudence to old age.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Youth is often characterized by impulsiveness, while older age brings caution and careful consideration.
This quote by Cicero highlights the contrast between the impulsive nature of youth and the carefully measured approach that often comes with age. It suggests that as individuals grow older, they tend to become more prudent and thoughtful, acknowledging the importance of careful decision-making gained through life experiences. The observation serves as a reminder of the inherent qualities associated with different stages of life and encourages a reflection on personal growth and the acquisition of wisdom.
Themes
YouthAgeWisdomPrudenceImpulsiveness
In practice
Example use cases
During a school graduation speech, to emphasize the importance of thinking carefully before acting upon youthful impulses.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Similar quotes
Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.
William HazlittRead
My affairs are in the keeping of Infinite Wisdom. I am guided by Divine Intelligence. The activity of Spirit inspires my mind and flows through my actions. Life lies open to me, rich, full and abundant.
Ernest HolmesRead
When once you consider an action, do not let anything dissuade you. Consult your heart, not others, and then follow its dictates.
Swami VivekanandaRead
I believe that we have been doing this not primarily to achieve riches or even honour, but rather because we were interested in the work, enjoyed doing it and felt very strongly that it was worthwhile.
Frederick SangerRead
It is a modern tragedy that despair has so many spokesmen, and hope so few.
Oscar Hammerstein IiRead
And the quality of good judgement is clearly a form of knowledge and skill, as it is because of knowledge and not because of ignorance that we judge well.
PlatoRead