Alas, how easily things go wrong! A sigh too much, a kiss too long And there follows a mist and a weeping rain And life is never the same again
George MacdonaldRead
I learned that he that will be a hero will barely be a man; that he that will be nothing but a doer of his work is sure of his manhood.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True manhood is defined by one's willingness to work and contribute, rather than seeking glory.
This quote by George MacDonald suggests that those who aspire to be heroes may often overlook the value of simply doing their work with integrity and dedication. It emphasizes that true masculinity or manhood is found in being diligent, reliable, and selfless in one's actions, rather than in the pursuit of fame or accolades.
Themes
HeroismManhoodDiligenceWorkIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about the importance of hard work and dedication.
More from George Macdonald
All quotes →It is not in the nature of politics that the best men should be elected. The best men do not want to govern their fellowmen.
George MacdonaldRead
He may delay because it would not be safe to give us at once what we ask: we are not ready for it. To give ere we could truly receive, would be to destroy the very heart and hope of prayer, to cease to be our Father. The delay itself may work to bring us nearer to our help, to increase the desire, perfect the prayer, and ripen the receptive condition.
George MacdonaldRead
When I can no more stir my soul to move, and life is but the ashes of a fire; when I can but remember that my heart once used to live and love, long and aspire- O, be thou then the first, the one thou art; be thou the calling, before all answering love, and in me wake hope, fear, boundless desire.
George MacdonaldRead
But words are vain; reject them all— They utter but a feeble part: Hear thou the depths from which they call, The voiceless longing of my heart.
George MacdonaldRead
Few delights can equal the presence of one whom we trust utterly.
George MacdonaldRead
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