Nothing is more durable than the dynasty of Doubt; for he reigns in the hearts of all his people, but gives satisfaction to none of them, and yet he is the only despot who can never die, while any of his subjects live.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
We are sure to be losers when we quarrel with ourselves; it is civil war.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Internal conflict leads to personal failure, much like a civil war destroys a nation from within.
This quote by Charles Caleb Colton highlights the detrimental effect of inner conflict and self-doubt. When we engage in a 'quarrel' with ourselves—filled with negative thoughts, self-criticism, or indecision—we undermine our own potential and create chaos in our lives. This metaphor of civil war illustrates how internal strife can be just as damaging as external conflicts, ultimately leading to personal defeat and unfulfilled ambitions.
Themes
Self-ConflictInner PeacePersonal GrowthSelf-AcceptanceCivil War
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming self-doubt and embracing one's true self.
More from Charles Caleb Colton
All quotes →It is astonishing how much more people are interested in lengthening life than improving it.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Happiness, that grand mistress of the ceremonies in the dance of life, impels us through all its mazes and meanderings, but leads none of us by the same route.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Our minds are as different as our faces. We are all traveling to one destination: happiness, but few are going by the same road.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Moderation is the inseparable companion of wisdom, but with it genius has not even a nodding acquaintance.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
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