Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
Is virtue a thing remote? I wish to be virtuous, and lo! Virtue is at hand.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Virtue is not distant; it can be achieved through desire and effort.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the idea that virtue is not an unattainable quality that sits far away from us, but rather something that is within reach if we genuinely wish to attain it. It suggests that the pursuit of virtue begins with the intention to be virtuous, highlighting the power of our desires and choices in cultivating moral character.
Themes
VirtueWisdomMoralCharacterIntention
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about personal growth and ethical living.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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