The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
We would rather see those to whom we do good, than those who do good to us.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights a preference for understanding and valuing the impact of our own actions rather than focusing on the benefits we receive from others.
Francois De La Rochefoucauld's quote emphasizes the importance of altruism and selflessness in human interactions. It suggests that people find greater fulfillment in observing the positive effects they have on others rather than being preoccupied with the good that is done for them. This perspective encourages a focus on giving, compassion, and the profound joy that comes from contributing to the well-being of others.
Themes
AltruismSelflessnessCompassionGivingHumanity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about community service, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of serving others.
More from Francois De La Rochefoucauld
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Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
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Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
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To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
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