Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Gratitude is a fundamental virtue that gives rise to all other positive traits.
This quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero emphasizes the importance of gratitude as a foundational virtue. It suggests that being thankful is not only crucial in its own right but also paves the way for developing other virtuous qualities, such as kindness, compassion, and humility. In recognizing and appreciating what we have, we cultivate a mindset that fosters a multitude of other positive traits that enhance our character and relationships.
Themes
GratitudeVirtueAppreciationKindnessPositivity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about developing personal virtues.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
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No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
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Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
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