To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization.
Harriet Beecher StoweRead
Let us resolve: First, to attain the grace of silence; second, to deem all fault finding that does no good a sin; third, to practice the grade and virtue of praise.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of silence, refraining from unproductive criticism, and practicing praise.
Harriet Beecher Stowe's quote encourages a mindful approach to communication. By advocating for silence when it serves no constructive purpose, encouraging the avoidance of empty criticism, and embracing the act of praising others, it promotes a harmonious and positive environment. These principles highlight the power of words and their impact on relationships, urging individuals to foster a more supportive and encouraging atmosphere in their interactions.
Themes
SilencePraiseFault FindingVirtueCommunication
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, one can use this quote to encourage a culture of constructive feedback.
More from Harriet Beecher Stowe
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Harriet Beecher StoweRead
Once, in an age, God sends to some of us a friend who loves in us, not a false imagining, an unreal character, but, looking through all the rubbish of our imperfections, loves in us the divine ideal of our nature, — loves, not the man that we are, but the angel that we may be.
Harriet Beecher StoweRead
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