To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Look round the habitable world, how few Know their own good, or, knowing it, pursue!
Interpretation
What this quote means
Few people recognize what is truly good for them, and even fewer actively seek it out.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin highlights the notion that many individuals are often unaware of what is truly beneficial for their lives. Even when people do have an understanding of their own good, they frequently lack the motivation or determination to pursue it. This speaks to the complexities of self-awareness and the challenges of taking action toward personal growth and fulfillment.
Themes
Self-AwarenessWisdomPursuitGoodAction
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal development, one might quote Franklin to emphasize the importance of pursuing oneβs true interests.
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
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Whose work is it but your own to open your eyes? But indeed the business of the universe is to make such a fool out of you that you will know yourself for one, and begin to be wise.
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Drive a nail home and clinch it so faithfully that you can wake up in the night and think of your work with satisfaction - a work at which you would not be ashamed to invoke the muse.
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Virtue is an angel, but she is a blind one, and must ask Knowledge to show her the pathway that leads to her goal.
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We can be knowledgeable with other men's knowledge, but we cannot be wise with other men's wisdom.
Michel De MontaigneRead