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But Father has also taught him: Treat a man as if he had a fine reputation to protect, and he will usually endeavor to deserve it.
Orson Scott Card
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Treating someone with respect can inspire them to live up to that expectation.

This quote emphasizes the power of perception and expectations in shaping an individual's behavior. By treating a person as if they possess a commendable reputation, it encourages them to act in a manner that aligns with that perception, fostering growth and integrity.

Themes

ReputationRespectExpectationsBehaviorIntegrity

In practice

Example use cases

A teacher can use this quote to inspire students to believe in their potential.

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And enough for me that when my hand touched your shoulder, you leaned on me; and when you felt me slip away, you called my name.
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The world is always a democracy in times of flux, and the man with the best voice will win.
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Never mind that the story had turned out to be lies and foolishness—there was always folks stupid enough to say, Where there's smoke there's fire, when the saying should have been, Where there's scandalous lies there's always malicious believers and spreaders-around, regardless of evidence.
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The lives of all people flow through time, and, regardless of how brutal one moment may be, how filled with grief or pain or fear, time flows through all lives equally.
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You take a step, then another. That's the journey. But to take a step with your eyes open is not a journey at all, it's a remaking of your own mind.
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I've had your tears with mine, and you've had mine with yours. I think that's more intimate even than a kiss.
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