Since God often sends us inspirations by means of His angels, we should frequently return our aspirations to him by means of the same messengers.
Saint Francis De SalesRead
Professions of humility are the very cream, the very essence of pride; the really humble person wishes to be, and not to appear so. Humility is timorous, and starts at her shadow; and so delicate that if she hears her name pronounced it endangers her existence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True humility is an inner quality rather than an outward display.
This quote highlights the distinction between genuine humility and the performative or superficial expressions of it. Saint Francis De Sales suggests that real humility is quiet and unassuming, thriving away from the spotlight, while false displays of humility are rooted in pride and a desire for recognition, thus implying that true humility does not seek attention or validation.
Themes
HumilityPrideInner QualitySelf-AwarenessWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership workshop, you might say this quote to discuss the difference between genuine leadership and showmanship.
More from Saint Francis De Sales
All quotes →You can attract more bees with a spoonful of sugar than a cupful of vinegar.
Saint Francis De SalesRead
Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself. I mean do not be disheartened by your imperfections, but always rise up with fresh courage
Saint Francis De SalesRead
Represent to yourself a dark city all burning and stinking with fire and brimstone. The damned are in the depth of hell within this woful city, where they suffer unspeakable torments in all their senses and members. Consider above all the eternity of their pains, which above all things makes hell intolerable.
Saint Francis De SalesRead
Lately I was near the beehives and some of the bees flew onto my face. I wanted to raise my hand, and brush them off. 'No,' said a peasant to me, 'do not be afraid, and do not touch them. They will not sting you at all, if you touch them they will bite you.' I trusted him; not one bit me. Trust me; do not fear these temptations. Do not touch them; they will not hurt you.
Saint Francis De SalesRead
There is no better means of attainment to the spiritual life Than by continually beginning again.
Saint Francis De SalesRead
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