You have to understand the good in things, to detect the real evil.
Interpretation
Recognizing positivity helps in identifying negativity in the world.
This quote by J. R. R. Tolkien suggests that a deep understanding and appreciation of the good aspects of life are essential in order to truly recognize and comprehend the evils that exist. It highlights the importance of having a balanced perspective, where acknowledging the positive can sharpen our ability to discern the negative realities we may face.
In practice
In a speech about overcoming adversity, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of recognizing positive elements in life.
All the same, I should like it all plain and clear," said he obstinately, putting on his business manner (usually reserved for people who tried to borrow money off him), and doing his best to appear wise and prudent and professional and live up to Gandalf's recommendation. "Also I should like to know about risks, out-of-pocket expenses, time required and remuneration, and so forth"--by which he meant: "What am I going to get out of it ? and am I going to come back alive?
Go not to the Elves for counsel,_x000D_ for they will say both no and yes._x000D_ Elves seldom give unguarded advice,_x000D_ for advice is a dangerous gift,_x000D_ even from the wise to the wise,_x000D_ and all courses may run ill.
What did I tell you, Mr. Pippin?' said Sam, sheathing his sword. 'Wolves won't get him. That was an eye-opener, and no mistake! Nearly singed the hair off my head!
Under the Mountain dark and tall The King has come unto his hall! His foe is dead, the Worm of Dread, And ever so his foes shall fall. The sword is sharp, the spear is long, The arrow swift, the Gate is strong; The heart is bold that looks on gold; The dwarves no more shall suffer wrong. The dwarves of yore made mighty spells, While hammers fells like ringing bells In places deep, where dark things sleep, In hollow halls beneath the fells. -from The Hobbit (Dwarves Battle Song)
The chief purpose of life, for any of us, is to increase according to our capacity our knowledge of God by all means we have, and to be moved by it to praise and thanks.
Alive without breath, As cold as death; Never thirsty, ever drinking, All in mail never clinking.
I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day; I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
Upon the progress of knowledge the whole progress of the human race is immediately dependent: he who retards that, hinders this also.
I'd rather be strongly wrong than weakly right.
Maharajji told me, 'Give up anger and I'll help you.' I found _x000D_ that love freed me back into the ocean of love and my righteous anger didn't do that. And I would rather be free than right.
Good thinkers always prime the pump of ideas. They always look for things to get the thinking process started, because what you put in always impacts what comes out.
That is the mystery of grace: it never comes too late.
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