The true secret of giving advice is, after you have honestly given it, to be perfectly indifferent whether it is taken or not, and never persist in trying to set people right.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
There are apartments in the soul which have a glorious outlook; from whose windows you can see across the river of death, and into the shining city beyond; but how often are these neglected for the lower ones, which have earthward-looking windows.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of focusing on higher spiritual and moral aspirations rather than being distracted by mundane concerns.
Henry Ward Beecher's quote suggests that within each individual's soul, there are aspects that can offer profound insight and connection to greater truths beyond our earthly existence. This metaphorical 'glorious outlook' symbolizes the elevated perspectives and spiritual awareness that can guide us through life's challenges and into a more meaningful existence. However, too often, people neglect these higher callings in favor of more immediate, materialistic choices represented by the 'lower ones', thus missing out on the deeper fulfillment that comes from acknowledging and striving for those higher ideals.
Themes
SoulPerspectiveSpiritualityAspirationsLife
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth.
More from Henry Ward Beecher
All quotes →A man who cannot get angry is like a stream that cannot overflow, that is always turbid. Sometimes indignation is as good as a thunderstorm in summer, clearing and cooling the air.
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No one can deal with the hearts of men unless he has the sympathy which is given by love.
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We are always on the anvil; by trials God is shaping us for higher things.
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No man can tell if he is rich or poor by turning to his ledger. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has.
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There are joys which long to be ours. God sends ten thousands truths, which come about us like birds seeking inlet; but we are shut up to them, and so they bring us nothing, but sit and sing awhile upon the roof, and then fly away.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
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