We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
All things human hang by a slender thread; and that which seemed to stand strong suddenly falls and sinks in ruins.
Interpretation
Life's stability is often illusory, and what seems strong can collapse unexpectedly.
This quote by Ovid reflects on the fragile nature of human existence and achievements. It suggests that everything we perceive as solid and secure can quickly deteriorate, reminding us of the unforeseen circumstances that can disrupt our lives. It serves as a cautionary note about the impermanence of our successes and the inevitability of change.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about resilience in the face of life's unpredictability.
We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
Fas est ab hoste doceri._x000D_ One should learn even from one's enemies.
Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
The end doesn't justify the means.
Most safely shall you tread the middle path.
the ends never justify the means because IT never ends.
If the universe were just electrons and selfish genes, meaningless tragedies ... are exactly what we should expect, along with equally meaningless good fortune. Such a universe would be neither evil nor good in intention ... The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil and no good, nothing but blind pitiless indifference.
I have a private theory, Sir, that there are no heroes and no monsters in this world. Only children should be allowed to use these words
Since men cannot create new forces, but merely combine and control those which already exist, the only way in which they can preserve themselves is by uniting their separate powers in a combination strong enough to overcome any resistance, uniting them so that their powers are directed by a single motive and act in concert.
I shall not want Honor in Heaven For I shall meet Sir Philip Sidney And have talk with Coriolanus And other heroes of that kidney.
The more refined one is, the more unhappy.
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