So many gods, so many creeds, so many paths that wind and wind while just the art of being kind is all the sad world needs.
Interpretation
Kindness is the essential virtue needed in a world filled with diversity and complexity.
Ella Wheeler Wilcox's quote emphasizes that amidst the multitude of beliefs, religions, and life paths people follow, the fundamental necessity for humanity is kindness. It suggests that no matter the differences among individuals, a simple act of kindness can bridge gaps and bring compassion to a world that is often sorrowful.
In practice
In a speech about community service, I could use this quote to highlight the importance of kindness.
Sweep up the debris of decaying faith; _x000D_ Sweep down the cobwebs of worn-out out beliefs, _x000D_ And throw your soul wide open to the light of reason and of knowledge. _x000D_ Be not afraid _x000D_ To thrust aside half-truths and grasp the whole.
I am the voice of the voiceless; Through me the dumb shall speak. Till the deaf world's ears be made to hear. The wrongs of the wordless weak. And I am my brothers keeper, And I will fight his fights; And speak the words for beast and bird. Till the world shall set things right.
A weed is but an unloved flower.
'Tis easy enough to be pleasant, When life flows along like a song; But the man worth while is the one who will smile when everything goes dead wrong.
Do you wish the world were happy? Then remember day by day, just to scatter seeds of kindness as you pass along the way. . . .
It is easy to be pleasant when life flows by like a song, but the man worth while is the one who will smile when everything goes dead wrong. For the test of the heart is trouble, and it always comes with years, and the smile that is worth the praises of earth is the smile that shines through the tears.
Who is strong? He that can conquer his bad habits.
If a man would reap praise, you must sow the seeds, gentle words and useful deeds.
Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.
Example, whether it be good or bad, has a powerful influence.
I have seen slower people than I am and more deliberate... and even quieter, and more listless, and lazier people than I am. But they were dead.
Sometimes the hardest thing to do in a pressure situation is to allow the tension to persist. The temptation is to make a decision, any decision, even if it is an inferior choice.
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