To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
If you would keep your secret from an enemy, tell it not to a friend.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Protecting sensitive information is crucial, even from those we trust.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the importance of discretion in our relationships. It suggests that sharing secrets, even with close friends, can lead to unintended consequences, especially if the person we confide in is not trustworthy or may inadvertently reveal the information to others, including adversaries. It serves as a reminder to be judicious about whom we share our innermost thoughts and vulnerabilities.
Themes
SecretTrustFriendEnemyDiscretion
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, someone might say this to remind colleagues to be discreet about sensitive information.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Similar quotes
Loyalty is what we seek in friendship.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
God is not so wary as we, else He would give us no friends, lest we forget Him! The charms of the heaven in the bush are superseded, I fear, by the heaven in the hand, occasionally.
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I hate the giving of the hand unless the whole man accompanies it.
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Few friendships would survive if each one knew what his friend says of him behind his back.
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I don't want enemies. I want friends, and I want them in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and loving whoever they want to.
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There are a good many fools who call me a friend, and also a good many friends who call me a fool.
Gilbert K. ChestertonRead