Those who understand only what can be explained understand very little.
Marie Von Ebner-EschenbachRead
In meeting again after a separation, acquaintances ask after our outward life, friends after our inner life.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the differences between acquaintances and true friends in how they engage after a period of separation.
Marie Von Ebner-Eschenbach highlights the essential difference in levels of intimacy that exist in relationships. When we reunite with acquaintances, the conversation tends to revolve around superficial aspects of our lives, such as our external circumstances. In contrast, true friends delve deeper, showing genuine concern for our emotional and inner well-being, thus fostering a stronger connection.
In practice
In a speech about maintaining friendships, one might use this quote to illustrate the depth of true friendship.
Those who understand only what can be explained understand very little.
We are so vain that we even care for the opinion of those we don't care for.
Whoever prefers the material comforts of life over intellectual wealth is like the owner of a palace who moves into the servantsβ quarters and leaves the sumptuous rooms empty.
Authors from whom others steal should not complain, but rejoice. Where there is no game there are no poachers.
Have patience with the quarrelsomeness of the stupid. It is not easy to comprehend that one does not comprehend.
There is only one proof of ability - action.
Farewell, and may the blessing of Elves and Men and all Free Folk go with you. May the stars shine upon your faces!
I never meant to write about the experience of losing a good friend to breast cancer when I was going through it. But after it was over, I realized that although something deeply sad had happened, something truly beautiful also had.
All powerful souls have kindred with each other
No one can take the place of a friend, no one.
Boo was our neighbor. He gave us two soap dolls, a broken watch and chain, a pair of good-luck pennies, and our lives.
Just thinking about a friend makes you want to do a happy dance, because a friend is someone who loves you in spite of your faults.
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