Be generous in prosperity and thankful in adversity, Be fair in thy judgment, and guarded in thy speech. Be a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, and a home to the stranger. Be eyes to the blind, and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be a breath of life to the body of humankind, a dew to the soil of the human heart, and a fruit upon the tree of humility.
Interpretation
Be kind and supportive in both good times and bad, and always strive to uplift others.
This quote emphasizes the importance of generosity, gratitude, fairness, and compassion towards others. It encourages individuals to be a positive force in the world, helping those who are struggling and providing guidance to those who are lost, while also highlighting humility and nurturing as essential virtues in human interactions.
In practice
In a speech about community service, one might reference this quote to inspire action.
That one indeed is a man who, today, dedicateth himself to the service of the entire human race. The Great Being saith: Blessed and happy is he that ariseth to promote the best interests of the peoples and kindreds of the earth. It is not for him to pride himself who loveth his own country, but rather for him who loveth the whole world. The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.
Religious fanaticism and hatred are a world-devouring fire, whose violence none can quench.
The utterance of God is a lamp, whose light is these words: Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony... So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.
So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.
Let your vision be world embracing rather than confined to your own self.
Noble have I created thee, yet thou hast abased thyself. Rise then unto that for which thou wast created.
Would you learn the secret of the sea? Only those who brave its dangers, comprehend its mystery!
As for disappointing them I should not so much mind; but I can't abide to disappoint myself.
Journalism is just a gun. It’s only got one bullet in it, but if you aim right, that’s all you need. Aim it right, and you can blow a kneecap off the world.
Why should I dislike anything about my appearance? I came off the factory line this way. I am perfect.
Necessity never made a good bargain.
The greatest piece of folly is that every man thinks himself compelled to hand down what people think they have known.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.