Do not say things. What you are stands over you the while, and thunders, so that I cannot hear what you say to the contrary.
Interpretation
Actions speak louder than words; one's true character is revealed through behavior rather than declarations.
Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of authenticity and integrity in our actions. He suggests that no matter what one claims to believe or profess, it is the reality of their character and actions that truly resonate and are perceived by others, overshadowing mere words and intentions.
In practice
In a leadership meeting, emphasize the importance of leading by example.
It is plain that there is no separate essence called courage, no cup or cell in the brain, no vessel in the heart containing drops or atoms that make or give this virtue; but it is the right or healthy state of every man, when he is free to do that which is constitutional to him to do.
Few people have any next, they live from hand to mouth without a plan, and are always at the end of their line.
Men cease to interest us when we find their limitations
Tis the good reader that makes the good book; a good head cannot read amiss: in every book he finds passages which seem confidences or asides hidden from all else and unmistakeably meant for his ear.
The world belongs to the energetic.
Hast thou named all the birds without a gun?
In temptations against chastity, the spiritual masters advise us, not so much to contend with the bad thought, as to turn the mind to some spiritual, or, at least, indifferent object. It is useful to combat other bad thoughts face to face, but not thoughts of impurity.
If you light a lantern for another, it will also brighten your own way
I have not wanted syllables where actions have spoken so plainly.
The future must enter you long before it happens.
Greatness of soul consists not so much in soaring high and in pressing forward, as in knowing how to adapt and limit oneself.
Do more than be fair: be kind.
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