Conceal a flaw, and the world will imagine the worst.
MartialRead
Service cannot be expected from a friend in service; let him be a freeman who wishes to be my master.
Interpretation
True friendship does not involve obligation or servitude; genuine relationships are based on freedom and mutual respect.
In this quote, Martial emphasizes that friendship should be free of expectations and obligations. A true friend acts out of goodwill, not because they are obliged to serve or obey; thus, relationships founded on freedom rather than domination or servitude are essential for authenticity and respect.
In practice
Using this quote in a speech about the nature of true friendships at a gathering.
Conceal a flaw, and the world will imagine the worst.
Life is not merely to be alive, but to be well.
To the ashes of the dead glory comes too late.
Life's not just about being alive, but being well.
My poems are naughty, but my life is pure.
Neither fear your death's day nor long for it.
I wanted to collaborate with someone, but it had to be someone I could work with and who wouldn't disrespect my past.
Prosperity is full of friends.
Hallo, Eeyore." "Same to you, Pooh Bear, and twice on Thursdays," said Eeyore gloomily. Before Pooh could say: 'Why Thursdays?' Christopher Robin began to explain the sad story of Eeyore's lost house.
A good friend and a bad friend are like a perfume-seller and a blacksmith: The perfume-seller might give you some perfume as a gift, or you might buy some from him, or at least you might smell its fragrance. As for the blacksmith, he might singe your clothes, and at the very least you will breathe in the fumes of the furnace.
Nothing is more dangerous than a friend without discretion; even a prudent enemy is preferable.
Did I miss?" you asked. "You didn't exactly miss," said Pooh, "But you missed the balloon." "I'm so sorry," you said, and you fired again, and this time you hit the balloon and the air came slowly out, and Winnie-the-Pooh floated down to the ground.
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