One kernel is felt in a hogshead; one drop of water helps to swell the ocean; a spark of fire helps to give light to the world. None are too small, too feeble, too poor to be of service. Think of this and act.
Hannah MoreRead
Man can see his reflection in water only when he bends down close to it, and the heart of man, too, must lean down to the heart of his fellow; then it will see itself within his heart.
Interpretation
What this quote means
To understand others, one must be humble and connect with them emotionally.
This quote by Hannah More suggests that just as a man must lower himself to see his reflection in water, he similarly must make an effort to empathize with others in order to truly understand himself. It highlights the importance of humility and emotional connection in relationships, indicating that the depth of our understanding of ourselves is intricately linked to our connections with others.
Themes
ReflectionEmpathyUnderstandingRelationshipsConnection
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a discussion on the importance of empathy in fostering strong relationships.
More from Hannah More
All quotes βAbsence in love is like water upon fire; a little quickens, but much extinguishes it.
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Since trifles make the sum of human things, And half our misery from our foibles springs.
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Everything which relates to God is infinite. We must therefore, while we keep our hearts humble, keep our aims high. Our highest services are indeed but finite, imperfect. But as God is unlimited in goodness, He should have our unlimited love.
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Affliction is the school in which great virtues are acquired, in which great characters are formed.
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He who cannot find time to consult his Bible will one day find he has time to be sick; he who has no time to pray must find time to die; he who can find no time to reflect is most likely to find time to sin; he who cannot find time for repentance will find an eternity in which repentance will be of no avail; he who cannot find time to work for others may find an eternity in which to suffer for himself.
Hannah MoreRead
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