"Among the smaller duties of life I hardly know any one more important than that of not praising where praise is not due"

This quote by Sydney Smith speaks to the value of being truthful and critical in our appreciation. It is simple to offer praise to those who we like or who we think deserve it, however it is very important to keep in mind that praise should be offered just when it is due. We ought to not give appreciation to someone merely due to the fact that we like them or since we think they deserve it, however rather because they have made it. This quote reminds us that we should take care to not give appreciation where it is not due, as this can be deceptive and can lead to incorrect expectations. It is necessary to be honest and discerning in our appreciation, and to just provide it when it is truly should have.