"For if there is anything to one's praise, it is foolish vanity to be gratified at it, and if it is abuse - why one is always sure to hear of it from one damned good-natured friend or another!"

This quote by Richard Brinsley Sheridan speaks with the idea that it is foolish to take pride in praise, and that one will constantly become aware of any abuse from a well-meaning buddy. It recommends that it is unworthy getting too caught up in either appreciation or criticism, as both will come and go. It is necessary to take a step back and not get too attached to either, as it can be a distraction from the essential things in life. The quote also talks to the concept that buddies are often the ones to tell us of our successes and failures, and that it is important to have good-natured friends who will be truthful with us. Ultimately, this quote encourages us to take a step back and not get too captured up in either appreciation or criticism, and to value the good-natured good friends who will tell us the fact.