We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
OvidRead
Keep thy hook always baited, for a fish lurks even in the most unlikely swim.
Interpretation
Stay prepared for unexpected opportunities, as chances can arise where you least expect them.
This quote by Ovid emphasizes the importance of being ready and open to opportunities at all times. It suggests that even in situations that may seem unpromising or unlikely, potential rewards or significant moments may still be present, urging us to maintain diligence and awareness in our pursuits.
In practice
During a motivational speech about career growth, one could use this quote to inspire readiness among the audience.
We are slow to believe that which if believed would hurt our feelings.
All things human hang by a slender thread; and that which seemed to stand strong suddenly falls and sinks in ruins.
A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man's brow.
Fas est ab hoste doceri._x000D_ One should learn even from one's enemies.
Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you.
The end doesn't justify the means.
But when we borrow trouble, and look forward into the future to see what storms are coming, and distress ourselves before they come as to how we shall avert them if they ever do come, we lose our proper trustfulness in God. When we torment ourselves with imaginary dangers, or trials, or reverses, we have already parted with that perfect love which casteth out fear.
The revealed Word awakened me, but it was the preached Word that saved me, and I must ever attach peculiar value to the hearing of the truth, for by it I received the joy and peace in which my soul delights.
The trust of the innocent is the liar's most useful tool.
These scars bear witness but whether to repair or to destruction I no longer know.
The wise ones fashioned speech with their thought, sifting it as grain is sifted through a sieve.
The things you get fired for when youβre young are the same things that you get lifetime achievement awards for when youβre old.
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