All the lessons of history in four sentences: Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad with power. The mills of God grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly small. The bee fertilizes the flower it robs. When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on power, justice, nature, and hope in adversity.
This quote by Charles A. Beard distills profound historical insights into the consequences of power and human behavior. It highlights that those who are granted power often become corrupt or mad with it, suggesting that justice may be slow but relentless, and that there is a reciprocal relationship in nature where one benefits while also giving. Finally, it emphasizes that in difficult times, one can find hope and clarity, symbolized by the ability to see stars in darkness.
In practice
In a speech addressing the consequences of unchecked power.
The study of history reveals that human progress has not been continuous and regular, but intermittent and spasmodic, often depending upon apparently accidental causes. It is difficult to get a cross-section view of society at any given stage.
The functions of the president are prescribed by the Constitution, but his real achievements are not set by the letter of the law. They are determined rather by his personality, the weight of his influence, his capacity for managing men, and the strength and effectiveness of the party forces behind him.
American government did not originate in any abstract theories about liberty and equality, but in the actual experience gained by generation after generation of English colonists in managing their own political affairs. The Revolution did not make a breach in the continuity of their institutional life.
Education from the lowest to the highest form must have for its object the training of the individual so that, in seeking the fullest satisfaction of his own nature, he will harmoniously perform his function as a member of a corporate society.
What we learn through failure becomes a precious part of us, strengthening us in everything we do. So let the tough things make you tougher.
Stuckness shouldn't be avoided. It's the physic predecessor of all real understanding.
You cannot lift another soul until you are standing on higher ground than he is. You cannot light a fire in another soul unless it is burning in your own soul.
You know that neither numbers nor strength give the victory, but that side which, with the assistance of the gods, attacks with the greatest resolution is generally irresistible.
There is an invisible strength within us; when it recognizes two opposing objects of desire, it grows stronger.
I do not pray. . . . I do not expect God to single me out and grant me advantages over my fellow men. . . . Prayer seems to me a cry of weakness, and an attempt to avoid, by trickery, the rules of the game as laid down. I do not choose to admit weakness. I accept the challenge of responsibility.
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