We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
Where belief is painful we are slow to believe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Belief often struggles in the presence of discomfort or pain.
This quote by Ovid suggests that when belief brings about suffering or discomfort, we are hesitant to fully embrace it. It highlights the human tendency to shy away from beliefs that seem to cause more pain than comfort, indicating a psychological defense against emotional distress.
Themes
BeliefPainHesitationPsychologyEmotion
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about faith and its challenges in a support group.
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
War: first, one hopes to win; then one expects the enemy to lose; then, one is satisfied that he too is suffering; in the end, one is surprised that everyone has lost.
Karl KrausRead
Will minus intellect constitutes vulgarity.
Arthur SchopenhauerRead
When you meet anyone, remember it is a holy encounter. As you see him, you will see yourself. As you treat him, you will treat yourself. As you think of him, you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself.
Marianne WilliamsonRead
God is not distant: he is 'Emmanuel,' God-with-us. He is no stranger: he has a face, the face of Jesus.
Pope Benedict XviRead
When liberty exceeds intelligence, it begets chaos, which begets dictatorship.
Will DurantRead
The values by which we are to survive are not rules for just and unjust conduct, but are those deeper illuminations in whose light justice and injustice, good and evil, means and ends are seen in fearful sharpness of outline.
Jacob BronowskiRead