It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
Daisaku IkedaRead
Having lived through the transition from totalitarianism, I am acutely mindful of the need to never take for granted the basic freedoms of thought, expression and belief that democracy brings.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of valuing and protecting democratic freedoms.
Daisaku Ikeda reflects on his experiences with totalitarianism and highlights the critical necessity of appreciating the fundamental freedoms that democracy offers, such as freedom of thought, expression, and belief. He warns against complacency and urges vigilance to ensure that these rights are safeguarded against any form of oppression.
Themes
FreedomDemocracyThoughtExpressionBelief
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about the importance of civic engagement in a democracy.
More from Daisaku Ikeda
All quotes βThereβs no need for us to be held back by the past or how things have been so far. The important thing is what seeds we are sowing now for the future.
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True love should be transformative; a process that amplifies our capacity to cherish not just one person but all people. It can make us stronger, lift us higher and deepen us as individuals. Only to the extent that we polish ourselves now can we hope to develop wonderful bonds of the heart in the future.
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Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, or philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
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Just as a diamond can only be polished by another diamond, it is only through genuine, all-out engagement with others that people can polish their character, and help each other to reach greater heights.
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Creating harmony amidst diversity is a fundamental issue of the twenty-first century. While celebrating the unique characteristics of different peoples and cultures, we have to create solidarity on the level of our common humanity, our common life. Without such solidarity, there will be no future for the human race. Diversity should not beget conflict in the world, but richness.
Daisaku IkedaRead
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