QuoteProject
My son, by all means desist from kicking the venerable and enlightened Vizier: for as a costly jewel retains its value even if hidden in a dung-hill, so old age and discretion are to be respected even in the vile persons of our subjects. Desist therefore, and tell us what you desire and propose.
C. S. Lewis
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Respect and wisdom are valuable traits that should be acknowledged, regardless of someone's position or behavior.

This quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of wisdom and experience, symbolized by the 'costly jewel', even when presented in less admirable circumstances. It suggests that one should be respectful and considerate towards those who possess knowledge and discretion, regardless of their outward appearance or socially perceived worth.

Themes

WisdomRespectAgeDiscretionValue

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion about respecting elders, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of valuing wisdom.

More from C. S. Lewis

A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
C. S. LewisRead
Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
C. S. LewisRead
Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
C. S. LewisRead
I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
C. S. LewisRead
The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
C. S. LewisRead

Similar quotes

When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
Miguel Angel RuizRead
You'll seldom experience regret for anything that you've done. It is what you haven't done that will torment you. The message, therefore, is clear. Do it! Develop an appreciation for the present moment. Seize every second of your life and savor it.
Wayne DyerRead
No matter what anybody says, what matters most is what you think of yourself.
India.ArieRead
Every human action, whether it has become positive or negative, must depend on motivation.
Dalai LamaRead
It is advantageous to an author that his book should be attacked as well as praised. Fame is a shuttlecock. If it be struck at one end of the room, it will soon fall to the ground. To keep it up, it must be struck at both ends.
Samuel JohnsonRead
When written in Chinese, the word 'crisis' is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other represents opportunity.
John F. KennedyRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.