Not that I am ashamed of my mind or body, my birth or breeding, my actions or fortunes, for my bashfulness is in my nature, not for any crime.
Margaret CavendishRead
But if our sex would but well consider and rationally ponder, they will perceive and find that it is neither words nor place that can advance them, but worth and merit.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True advancement comes from one’s worth and merit, not from empty words or status.
This quote by Margaret Cavendish emphasizes the importance of tangible qualities such as worth and merit over superficial aspects like words or location. It suggests that if individuals take the time to reflect deeply on their own value and contributions, they will realize that their progress in life is determined by their intrinsic qualities rather than mere external circumstances or verbal affirmations.
Themes
WorthMeritAdvancementSelf-ReflectionValue
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal development, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of internal qualities.
More from Margaret Cavendish
All quotes →Similar quotes
Those who have dissected or inspected many [bodies] have at least learnt to doubt; while others who are ignorant of anatomy and do not take the trouble to attend it are in no doubt at all.
Giovanni Battista MorgagniRead
Time, dear friend, time brings round opportunity; opportunity is the martingale of man. The more we have ventured the more we gain, when we know how to wait.
Alexandre DumasRead
Time is generally the best doctor.
OvidRead
When I say 'Crush your enemy', I don't literally mean it.
Robert GreeneRead
God has bestowed upon you intelligence and knowledge. Do not extinguish the lamp of Divine Grace and do not let the candle of wisdom die out in the darkness of lust and error. For a wise man approaches with his torch to light up the path of mankind.
Khalil GibranRead
With celestial sight, trials impossible to change become possible to endure.
Russell M. NelsonRead