We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
As the yellow gold is tried in fire, so the faith of friendship must be seen in adversity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True friendship is tested during difficult times.
Ovid's quote highlights the idea that genuine friendships are revealed in challenging circumstances, much like how gold is purified and tested for quality by fire. Adversity serves as a crucible for friendships, allowing individuals to see who truly stands by them during tough times, thus reinforcing the notion that a reliable friend is one who remains steadfast when faced with difficulties.
Themes
FriendshipAdversityTrustLoyaltyFaith
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used as a reminder during a gathering of friends going through tough times.
More from Ovid
All quotes βAll things human hang by a slender thread; and that which seemed to stand strong suddenly falls and sinks in ruins.
OvidRead
A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
OvidRead
Fas est ab hoste doceri._x000D_ One should learn even from one's enemies.
OvidRead
Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
OvidRead
The end doesn't justify the means.
OvidRead
Similar quotes
Books like friends, should be few and well-chosen.
Samuel JohnsonRead
Those were happier days, when there was still close friendship at times between folk of different race, even between Dwarves and Elves.' It was not the fault of the Dwarves that the friendship waned,' said Gimli. I have not heard that it was the fault of the Elves,' said Legolas. I have heard both,' said Gandalf[.]
J. R. R. TolkienRead
The Making of Friends Life is sweet because of the friends we have made And the things which in common we share; We want to live on, not because of ourselves, But because of the ones who would care. It's living and doing for somebody else On that all of life's splendor depends, And the joy of it all, when we count it all up, Is found in the making of friends.
Edgar GuestRead
So far be distant; and good night, sweet friend: thy love ne'er alter, till they sweet life end
William ShakespeareRead
Friendship is a single soul dwelling in two bodies.
AristotleRead
Do not desert a friend in time of need, nor forsake him nor fail him, for friendship is the support of life. Let us then bear our burdens as the Apostle has taught (cf. Gal. 6:2): for he spoke to those whom the charity of the same one body had embraced together. If friends in prosperity help friends, why do they not also in times of adversity offer their support? Let us aid by giving counsel, let us offer our best endeavors, let us sympathize with them with all our heart.
AmbroseRead