Pride is founded not on the sense of happiness, but on the sense of power.
William HazlittRead
It is well there is no one without fault; for he would not have a friend in the world. He would seem to belong to s different species.
Interpretation
Everyone has faults, and it's our imperfections that allow us to connect with others.
William Hazlittβs quote highlights the universality of human flaws, suggesting that without these imperfections, one would feel isolated and unable to form genuine friendships. It underscores the idea that our shared vulnerabilities and shortcomings form the basis of authentic human connections, reminding us that it is our faults that make us relatable and human.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of empathy, one could use this quote to emphasize that everyone has flaws.
Pride is founded not on the sense of happiness, but on the sense of power.
The world loves to be amused by hollow professions, to be deceived by flattering appearances, to live in a state of hallucination; and can forgive everything but the plain, downright, simple, honest truth.
Our repugnance to death increases in proportion to our consciousness of having lived in vain.
We can bear to be deprived of everything but our self-conceit.
There are few things in which we deceive ourselves more than in the esteem we profess to entertain for our firends. It is little better than a piece of quackery. The truth is, we think of them as we please, that is, as they please or displease us.
Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.
If you are a friend, why do you bite me so hard? If an enemy, why do you fawn on me?
Bluegrass has brought more people together and made more friends than any music in the world. You meet people at festivals and renew acquaintances year after year.
Lean on me, when you're not strong and I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on.
Because our expression is imperfect we need friendship to fill up the imperfections.
But, of course, it isn't really Good-bye, because the Forest will always be there... and anybody who is Friendly with Bears can find it.
Is that the basis of friendship? Is it as reactive as that? Do we respond only to people who seem to find us interesting?... Do we all buzz or ring or light up when people press our vanity buttons, and only then? Can I think of anyone in my whole life whom I have liked without his first showing signs of liking me?
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