Guard well within yourself that treasure, kindness. Know how to give without hesitation, how to lose without regret, how to acquire without meanness.
George SandRead
One is happy as a result of one's own efforts, once one knows of the necessary ingredients of happiness-simple tastes, a certain degree of courage, self-denial to a point, love of work, and, above all, a clear conscience. Happiness is no vague dream, of that I now feel certain.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Happiness stems from personal efforts and understanding what it requires.
In this quote, George Sand emphasizes that true happiness is achievable through one's own actions and awareness. It suggests that happiness is not an abstract or unattainable goal, but rather consists of simple pleasures, courage, self-discipline, a love for one's work, and a clear conscience, which together can lead to a fulfilling and joyful life.
Themes
HappinessEffortsSelf-DenialCourageWorkConscience
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal development, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of taking responsibility for one's own happiness.
More from George Sand
All quotes βHumanity is outraged in me and with me. We must not dissimulate nor try to forget this indignation, which is one of the most passionate forms of love.
George SandRead
Young love needs dangers and barriers to nourish it.
George SandRead
Once my heart was captured, reason was shown the door, deliberately and with a sort of frantic joy. I accepted everything, I believed everything, without struggle, without suffering, without regret, without false shame. How can one blush for what one adores?
George SandRead
Some say that cats are devils, but they behave badly only when they are alone. When they are among us cats are angels.
George SandRead
Art for art's sake is an empty phrase. Art for the sake of truth, art for the sake of the good and the beautiful, that is the faith I am searching for.
George SandRead
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It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere.
Agnes RepplierRead