There is not the least flower but seems to hold up its head, and to look pleasantly, in the secret sense of the goodness of its Heavenly Maker.
Robert SouthRead
That in all these worldly Things, that a Man pursues with the greatest Eagerness and Intention of Mind imaginable, he finds not half the Pleasure in the actual Possession of them, that he proposed to himself in the Expectation.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The pursuit of desires often brings more joy than the actual attainment of them.
This quote by Robert South highlights the idea that human beings often place immense value on their desires and aspirations, believing that achieving them will bring happiness. However, the reality of obtaining these desires frequently falls short of the joy and excitement that the anticipation of these ambitions can create, suggesting that the journey and expectation can be more fulfilling than the destination itself.
Themes
HappinessPleasureExpectationDesirePursuit
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a motivational talk about the significance of enjoying the process rather than just focusing on the end goal.
More from Robert South
All quotes →The grateful person fears no court or judge, no sentence or executioner, but what he carries about him in his own breast: and being still the most severe exactor of himself, not only confesses but proclaims his debts.
Robert SouthRead
Speech was given to the ordinary sort of men, whereby to communicate their mind; but to wise men, whereby to conceal it.
Robert SouthRead
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