The man who has sufficient power over himself to wait until his nature has recovered its even balance is the truly wise man, but such beings are seldom met with.
Giacomo CasanovaRead
I have met with some of them - very honest fellows, who, with all their stupidity, had a kind of intelligence and an upright good sense, which cannot be the characteristics of fools.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the complexity of intelligence and morality, suggesting that some individuals may possess wisdom despite appearing foolish.
Giacomo Casanova's quote emphasizes the idea that intelligence and honesty can exist alongside simplicity or ignorance. It highlights the notion that true wisdom is multifaceted, and individuals labeled as 'fools' may still hold valuable insights and moral integrity. The recognition of this duality encourages a deeper understanding of human nature and the potential for depth in seemingly ordinary individuals.
In practice
This quote can be used during a discussion on the different forms of intelligence.
The man who has sufficient power over himself to wait until his nature has recovered its even balance is the truly wise man, but such beings are seldom met with.
From that moment our love became sad, and sadness is a disease which gives the death-blow to affection.
The mind of a human being is formed only of comparisons made in order to examine analogies, and therefore cannot precede the existence of memory.
For my future I have no concern, and as a true philosopher, I never would have any, for I know not what it may be: as a Christian, on the other hand, faith must believe without discussion, and the stronger it is, the more it keeps silent.
I have had friends who have acted kindly towards me, and it has been my good fortune to have it in my power to give them substantial proofs of my gratitude.
Man is free; yet we must not suppose that he is at liberty to do everything he pleases, for he becomes a slave the moment he allows his actions to be ruled by passion.
Indeed, your biggest challenge may be to fully harness your strengths. You may be so busy trying to appear like a zestful, reward-sensitive extrovert that you undervalue your own talents, or feel underestimated by those around you. But when you’re focused on a project that you care about, you probably find that your energy is boundless.
The source of anxiety lies in the future. If you can keep the future out of mind, you can forget your worries.
Our first duty is not to hate ourselves, because to advance we must have faith in ourselves first and then in God. Those who have no faith in themselves can never have faith in God.
Some people spend the day in complaining of a headache, and the night in drinking the wine that gives it.
Before I can embrace freedom, I should be aware of what duties I have.
You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.