To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A young state should be selective about alliances and not overly eager to seek them out, as it has potential value.
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin uses the metaphor of a young virgin to discuss the careful approach a new state should take in forming alliances. Just as a virgin should wait for suitable suitors rather than indiscriminately offering her companionship, a young state should recognize its inherent worth and wait for the right opportunities for partnerships, reflecting the idea that patience can lead to valuable outcomes.
Themes
PatienceAlliancesValueCautionCarefulOpportunities
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about international relations, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of strategic patience.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes →He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
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[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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All highly competent people continually search for ways to keep learning, growing, and improving. They do that by asking WHY. After all, the person who knows HOW will always have a job, but the person who knows WHY will always be the boss.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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