An unofficial commentary notebook for famous quotes

(6494)
#Gandhi
“Prayer is a confession of one’s own unworthiness and weakness.”

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“We must never neglect the patient’s own use of his symptoms.” - Alfred Adler This quote highlights a foundational concept in Alfred Adler’s psychology: symptoms—whether emotional or physical—often serve a purpose or function for the individual, even if that purpose is unconscious. Rather than seeing symptoms purely as signs of disease or dysfunction, Adler insists on examining how the patient uses those symptoms to navigate life. This might include avoiding responsibility, eliciting sympathy, or maintaining a certain social role. In this view, symptoms are not just something that happens to a person, but something a person may employ to cope with internal conflicts or perceived limitations.

(6493)
#Alfred Adler
“We must never neglect the patient’s own use of his symptoms.”

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“I could sooner reconcile all Europe than two women.” - Louis XIV This quote by Louis XIV humorously highlights the complexities and challenges of dealing with personal relationships, particularly the conflict between women. The statement reflects a common stereotype of the time, where women were often seen as emotional or unpredictable, and it plays on the idea that resolving conflicts between women is more difficult than reconciling the entire continent of Europe, which was often embroiled in political and military disputes. In Louis XIV’s case, this remark could be seen as referencing the tensions within his own court, especially among royal women—whether between queens, mistresses, or other influential women at Versailles—who sometimes vied for favor or power.

(6492)
#Louis XIV
“I could sooner reconcile all Europe than two women.”

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“My strong point, if I have a strong point, is performance. I always do more than I say. I always produce more than I promise.” - Nixon In this quote, Richard Nixon emphasizes action over rhetoric, presenting himself as a results-driven leader. The modest preface “if I have a strong point” shows a touch of self-deprecation, but it quickly gives way to confidence in his ability to deliver concrete outcomes. By stating, “I always do more than I say” and “produce more than I promise,” Nixon casts himself as someone who underpromises and overdelivers, a quality often admired in both politics and business.

(6491)
#Nixon
“My strong point, if I have a strong point, is performance. I always do more than I say. I always produce more than I promise.”

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“Liberation is not deliverance.” - Hugo In this quote, Victor Hugo draws a distinction between two concepts—liberation and deliverance—which, although they may seem similar, are fundamentally different in meaning. Liberation refers to the act of freeing oneself or others from external control, oppression, or constraint, while deliverance implies a deeper form of salvation or rescue—often spiritual or existential—in which the individual is saved or protected from some form of suffering or danger. Hugo suggests that while liberation may offer freedom from physical or political oppression, it does not necessarily equate to the profound sense of deliverance—which is more about inner peace, fulfillment, or redemption.

(6490)
#Hugo
“Liberation is not deliverance.”

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“I took the vow of celibacy in 1906. I had not shared my thoughts with my wife until then, but only consulted her at the time of making the vow. She had no objection.” - Gandhi In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi reflects on his personal decision to take a vow of celibacy (brahmacharya) in 1906, a significant and deeply spiritual commitment for him. Gandhi’s vow was not just about abstinence from physical relations, but about dedicating himself fully to a life of self-discipline, spirituality, and service. His decision to consult his wife, Kasturba, before making the vow, and her non-objection, reflects his understanding of their partnership and the respect he had for her as his equal in their shared life journey. However, this moment also illustrates how Gandhi viewed celibacy as a personal spiritual discipline that could coexist with his marriage, which was a deeply complex aspect of his personal and marital life.

(6489)
#Gandhi
“I took the vow of celibacy in 1906. I had not shared my thoughts with my wife until then, but only consulted her at the time of making the vow. She had no objection.”

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“Among all types of boasting, there is none more harmless than boasting about one’s fighting skills.” - Yukio Mishima In this quote, Mishima suggests that boasting about one’s ability to fight—commonly referred to as “boasting about one’s fighting skills”—is one of the least harmful forms of pride or self-promotion. Unlike boasting about wealth, status, or power, which can have more significant social and moral consequences, fighting bragging is viewed as relatively innocuous or even childish. Mishima is drawing attention to the uncomplicated nature of fighting as a boast. Physical strength or fighting prowess, in this sense, is a primitive form of pride, one that carries no inherent malice or social harm, as it is often confined to the realm of individual prowess rather than broader, more impactful social dynamics.

(6488)
#Yukio Mishima
“Among all types of boasting, there is none more harmless than boasting about one’s fighting skills.”

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“The meaning of life is contained in every single expression of life. It is present in the infinity of forms and phenomena that exist in all of creation.” - Michael Jackson This quote reflects Michael Jackson’s philosophical and almost mystical view of life, emphasizing that meaning is not confined to grand achievements or singular moments, but is instead embedded in every aspect of existence. The idea that the meaning of life is “contained in every single expression of life” suggests a reverence for the ordinary and the extraordinary alike, seeing purpose in every breath, being, and interaction.

(6487)
#Michael Jackson
“The meaning of life is contained in every single expression of life. It is present in the infinity of forms and phenomena that exist in all of creation.”

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“Weight, force and casual impulse, together with resistance, are the four external powers in which all the visible actions of mortals have their being and their end.” - Leonardo In this quote,Leonardo da Vincioutlines four fundamental external forces—weight,force,casual impulse, andresistance—which he believes govern allphysical actionsin the world. According to Da Vinci, these four forces are responsible for both theinitiationand theendof all visible movement or actions in the physical world.Weightrepresents the force of gravity acting on objects, pulling them downward.Forcerefers to the energy applied to move or change the state of an object.Casual impulsesuggests a spontaneous or external force that causes an object to move.Resistanceis the opposing force that acts against motion, such as friction or air resistance. Together, these forces shape the behavior of allphysical phenomena, from the movement of objects to the actions of living beings.

(6486)
#Leonardo
“Weight, force and casual impulse, together with resistance, are the four external powers in which all the visible actions of mortals have their being and their end.”

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“Blinding ignorance does mislead us. O! Wretched mortals, open your eyes!” - Leonardo In this quote,Leonardo da Vincicalls attention to the dangers ofignorance—particularly the kind that iswillfulorblinding, where people choose to remain unaware of important truths. Da Vinci is urging people toquestion their assumptions, toseek knowledge, and to open theireyesto the world around them. He uses the phrase “wretched mortals” to express frustration with the tendency of human beings toremain in ignorance, which can lead them down harmful or misguided paths. The quote is a plea for intellectualawarenessand the rejection of complacency, urging people to pursuetruthrather than remaindeceivedby false beliefs or a lack of understanding.

(6485)
#Leonardo
“Blinding ignorance does mislead us. O! Wretched mortals, open your eyes!”

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“If there was less sympathy in the world, there would be less trouble in the world.” - Wilde In this quote, Oscar Wilde offers a provocative and ironic perspective on the concept of sympathy. Wilde suggests that too much sympathy can lead to complicated emotions and unnecessary trouble, as people might overextend themselves emotionally or become overly involved in the struggles of others. He implies that excessive empathy can sometimes enable negative situations to persist, as it may encourage people to focus on suffering rather than practical solutions. In his view, sympathy can create a cycle of dependency or emotional turmoil rather than offering a clear path to resolving problems.

(6484)
#Wilde
“If there was less sympathy in the world, there would be less trouble in the world.”

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“What is important in life is life, and not the result of life.” - Goethe Goethe emphasizes the value of thejourneyover the destination, suggesting that the essence of life lies in the experience itself, rather than focusing solely on outcomes or achievements. True fulfillment comes from engaging with life in the present moment, enjoying the process of living, and appreciating the experiences, rather than obsessing over the end result or future goals.

(6483)
#Goethe
“What is important in life is life, and not the result of life.”

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“If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world at peace.” - F. D. Roosevelt In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt emphasizes the critical need for understanding and cooperation between different peoples and cultures to ensure the survival of civilization. Roosevelt was speaking at a time when the world was recovering from the devastation of World War II, and tensions between nations were high. The statement reflects his belief that the future of humanity depends on effective communication, empathy, and collaboration across borders. The phrase “the science of human relationships” implies that this process requires deliberate effort and study, much like any other discipline.

(6482)
#F. D. Roosevelt
“If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world at peace.”

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“It is more agreeable to have the power to give than to receive.” - Churchill In this quote, Winston Churchill reflects on the joy and satisfaction that comes from having the ability to give—whether it be resources, help, kindness, or support—rather than simply receiving. He suggests that the act of giving is a powerful and fulfilling experience because it allows one to feel empowered and generous, in contrast to the more passive act of receiving, which can sometimes feel more dependent or limited. Churchill’s words align with the idea that altruism and selflessness are not only valuable but can bring a greater sense of happiness and purpose.

(6481)
#Churchill
“It is more agreeable to have the power to give than to receive.”

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“Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air we wawl and cry. When we are born we cry, that we are come to this great state of fools.” - Shakespeare This quote from Shakespeare’s King Lear reflects on the inherent suffering and absurdity of life from the very moment of birth. The first part, “the first time that we smell the air we wawl and cry”, suggests that life begins with suffering. The first breath we take is followed by crying, which can be seen as a reaction to the harshness of the world we are born into. Shakespeare presents birth not as a joyous event but as an introduction to a life filled with struggle and folly. The second line, “When we are born we cry, that we are come to this great state of fools,” implies that life itself is a state of foolishness, where people are destined to experience hardships and face the absurdity of human existence.

(6480)
#Shakespeare
“Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air we wawl and cry. When we are born we cry, that we are come to this great state of fools.”

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“Our lifetime may be the last that will be lived out in a technological society.” - Arthur C. Clarke This quote reveals Arthur C. Clarke’s deep concern about the fragility of modern civilization, particularly in relation to technology. By suggesting that our lifetime could be the last within a technological society, Clarke warns of the potential for catastrophic collapse, whether from nuclear war, ecological disaster, or runaway technological misuse. The tone is not one of resignation, but of grave urgency, calling attention to the precariousness of what we often take for granted.

(6479)
#Arthur C. Clarke
“Our lifetime may be the last that will be lived out in a technological society.”

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“Ye may have a greater prince, but ye shall never have a more loving prince.” - Elizabeth I In this deeply personal statement, Elizabeth I acknowledges that future rulers may surpass her in power, prestige, or political achievement (“a greater prince”), but insists that none will match her in affection for her people. The quote expresses emotional intimacy and devotion, emphasizing that her reign was marked not just by governance, but by genuine care for her subjects. She redefines greatness not in terms of might, but in terms of love and loyalty.

(6478)
#Elizabeth I
“Ye may have a greater prince, but ye shall never have a more loving prince.”

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“Concision in style, precision in thought, decision in life.” - Hugo In this quote, Victor Hugo emphasizes the importance of clarity, focus, and resolve in different aspects of life. He suggests that in writing, concision—the ability to express ideas briefly and clearly—is a sign of strong communication and intellectual strength. In thought, he stresses the need for precision—being clear and exact in our understanding and reasoning, avoiding vagueness or ambiguity. Lastly, in life, Hugo advocates for decision—having the courage and commitment to make choices and act upon them, instead of remaining indecisive or passive.

(6477)
#Hugo
“Concision in style, precision in thought, decision in life.”

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(6476)
#Wilde
“The good ended happily, and the bad unhappily. That is what fiction means.”

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“He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.” - Laozi This quote from Laozi highlights the difference between external power and internal strength. Laozi suggests that while conquering others through force or dominance may demonstrate physical or political strength, true might comes from the ability to master oneself. Conquering oneself involves self-discipline, control over one’s emotions, desires, and impulses, and the ability to maintain equanimity in the face of challenges. Laozi’s wisdom reflects the Daoist belief that inner peace and self-mastery are far more powerful and enduring than the transient victories achieved by external domination.

(6475)
#Laozi
“He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.”

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(6473)
#Locke
“There is frequently more to be learned from the unexpected questions of a child than the discourses of men.”

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“Boxing is a lot of white men watching two black men beat each other up.” - Uncategorized In this provocative and incisive statement, Muhammad Ali critiques the racial and economic dynamics of professional boxing, pointing out the exploitation that often underlies the sport. By framing boxing as a spectacle consumed by white audiences while Black fighters endure the physical punishment, Ali draws attention to the imbalance of power, profit, and pain—a reality that extended beyond the ring into broader American society.

(6470)
#Uncategorized
“Boxing is a lot of white men watching two black men beat each other up.”

#Quotes #aphorisms #Lifelong #Learning #Life #Lessons

“Suppose that we are wise enough to learn and know – and yet not wise enough to control our learning and knowledge, so that we use it to destroy ourselves? Even if that is so, knowledge r... - Asimov In this quote, Asimov explores the dual-edged nature of knowledge and human progress. He acknowledges that while the pursuit of knowledge can advance humanity, it can also be misused, leading to potentially disastrous consequences. The possibility of using knowledge to destroy oneself—through weapons of mass destruction, environmental damage, or other forms of self-sabotage—does not, in his view, negate the value of knowledge itself. Despite its potential for harm, knowledge is still preferable to ignorance. Asimov argues that the key issue is not the acquisition of knowledge but the wisdom to use it responsibly. This reflects his belief that, even with the potential for misuse, knowledge offers the possibility of progress, improvement, and problem-solving, which ignorance cannot provide.

(6469)
#Asimov
“Suppose that we are wise enough to learn and know – and yet not wise enough to control our learning and knowledge, so that we use it to destroy ourselves? Even if that is so, knowledge r...

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“True glory takes root, and even spreads; all false pretences, like flowers, fall to the ground; nor can any counterfeit last long.” - Cicero This quote contrasts the enduring nature of genuine glory with the fleeting existence of false or superficial honors. Cicero suggests that true glory is like a deep-rooted plant—it grows steadily and expands its influence over time, grounded in authentic virtue and lasting deeds. In contrast, **false pretences—like beautiful but short-lived flowers—quickly wither

(6468)
#Cicero
“True glory takes root, and even spreads; all false pretences, like flowers, fall to the ground; nor can any counterfeit last long.”

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“Training is everything. The peach was once a bitter almond; cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education.” - Twain Mark Twain’s quote humorously highlights the transformative power of training and education, suggesting that with the right development, even the most ordinary or unremarkable things can evolve into something better or more refined. The comparison between a peach and a bitter almond illustrates how something initially bitter or unappealing can be turned into something sweet through time, care, and training. Similarly, Twain humorously describes cauliflower as just cabbage with “a college education”—implying that cauliflower is essentially a more elevated or refined version of cabbage, much like how education or training can take something basic and transform it into something more sophisticated.

(6467)
#Twain
“Training is everything. The peach was once a bitter almond; cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education.”

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“Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” - Voltaire This quote reflects Voltaire’s recognition of the transformative power of gratitude and admiration. By appreciating the virtues and talents of others, we not only acknowledge their worth but also enrich our own lives. Voltaire suggests that when we admire qualities like kindness, intelligence, or creativity in others, we metaphorically make those qualities part of our experience, fostering connection and personal growth.

(6466)
#Voltaire
“Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”

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“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct acting from inner necessity. The creative mind plays with the objects it loves.” - Jung In this quote, Carl Jung emphasizes that creativity is not a product of logical thinking or intellectual effort, but rather stems from a deeper, instinctual force—what he calls the play instinct. Jung argues that true innovation arises when the creative mind engages with the world not from a place of rigid analysis or calculation, but from a sense of spontaneity and joyful exploration. The creative process, for Jung, is driven by a natural inner necessity that compels the individual to express or form something new, often through a playful interaction with the objects, ideas, or materials that they are passionate about. This form of creativity is not about controlling or mastering the objects of the mind, but rather about developing a relationship with them—where the mind “plays” with these objects freely, allowing for surprises, discovery, and the emergence of new ideas. Jung’s view contrasts with the idea that creativity is simply a result of intellectual reasoning or technical skills; it is, in fact, a more organic, fluid process.

(6465)
#Jung
“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct acting from inner necessity. The creative mind plays with the objects it loves.”

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“Love is a binding force, by which another is joined to me and cherished by myself.” - Aquinas Thomas Aquinas describes love as a powerful binding force that unites people, emphasizing that true love involves not only being connected to another but also cherishing that person deeply. Love, according to Aquinas, is not a passive feeling; it is an active force that creates a profound connection between individuals, encouraging them to care for and value one another. This connection is not about ownership or control, but about mutual respect and a desire for the well-being of the other person, who becomes an integral part of one’s own life.

(6464)
#Aquinas
“Love is a binding force, by which another is joined to me and cherished by myself.”

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“I exhort you also to take part in the great combat, which is the combat of life, and greater than every other earthly conflict.” - Plato In this quote, Plato calls on individuals to engage in the great combat of life, which he describes as the most significant struggle a person can face. This “combat” is not a literal battle, but rather the philosophical and moral challenges that we encounter throughout our lives. Plato suggests that the real conflict is the struggle for virtue, wisdom, and self-mastery—the internal battle to live in accordance with the higher ideals of truth, justice, and morality. He emphasizes that this spiritual and intellectual struggle is of far greater importance than any earthly conflict, such as wars or physical challenges.

(6463)
#Plato
“I exhort you also to take part in the great combat, which is the combat of life, and greater than every other earthly conflict.”

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“On the whole, human beings want to be good, but not too good, and not quite all the time.” - Orwell In this quote, George Orwell presents a nuanced view of human nature, suggesting that while people generally strive to be moral or good, they often do so with limits. Orwell acknowledges that people desire to act in a way that is virtuous or moral, but they are reluctant to be too good—meaning, they are not always willing to make the full sacrifices or take the complete responsibility that true goodness might demand. Similarly, they do not wish to be good all the time, as this would require a level of self-discipline and consistency that may feel too burdensome or unnatural. Instead, there is a balance, where people want to maintain some degree of freedom or imperfection, indulging in their flaws or acting outside the realm of morality when it suits them.

(6462)
#Orwell
“On the whole, human beings want to be good, but not too good, and not quite all the time.”

#Quotes #aphorisms #Lifelong #Learning #Life #Lessons