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Grant what thou commandest and then command what thou wilt.
Saint Augustine
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of enabling oneself or others to achieve their goals before setting further demands.

In this quote, Saint Augustine advocates for a compassionate and equitable approach to leadership and authority. He suggests that one should ensure that they provide the necessary means or support to those they command before issuing commands or expectations. This perspective underscores the significance of mutual understanding and the responsibility of leaders to empower others, promoting a harmonious relationship between authority and obedience.

Themes

LeadershipEmpowermentResponsibilitySupportGuidance

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a motivational speech about effective leadership.

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Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord. The hairs of his head are easier by far to count than his feeling, the movements of his heart.
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Whatever skills I have acquired, whatever gifts I have been given, I place them at Your service.
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Everyone who observes himself doubting observes a truth, and about that which he observes he is certain; therefore he is certain about a truth. Everyone therefore who doubts whether truth exists has in himself a truth on which not to doubt.... Hence one who can doubt at all ought not to doubt the existence of truth.
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A little wisdom, now and then

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