"A man must live like a great brilliant flame and burn as brightly as he can. In the end he burns out. But this is far better than a mean little flame"
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The quote by Boris Yeltsin encapsulates an approach on how one should approach life with vigor, passion, and intensity. It recommends that life ought to be lived to its maximum, akin to a "excellent dazzling flame", suggesting that a person should aim to make a considerable impact or leave a long lasting tradition. The idea is to welcome the chances life provides with interest and passion, rather than holding back or living meticulously.
Yeltsin contrasts this ideal with the metaphor of a "mean little flame", suggesting a life lived timidly without aspiration or boldness. The "indicate little flame" represents a life of mediocrity, one where the specific avoids risk and selects not to strive for greatness. This little flame doesn't light up the world around it, nor does it bring warmth. It means a life that might burn regularly over time but lacks the intensity and passion that could lead to an extensive effect or individual satisfaction.
By stating that it is "far much better" to burn vibrantly and eventually stress out, Yeltsin stresses the significance of taking full advantage of one's time and capacity, even if it means using up oneself at the same time. The notion of burning out is viewed not as a terrible end, however as the natural conclusion of a life well-lived. It indicates that the value of life remains in the vibrancy and the energy with which it is lived, not in its period.
Eventually, the quote acts as a call to action to live courageously and actively. It motivates people to pursue their enthusiasms and dreams with intensity and to accept that while such a path might lead to an earlier "burn out", it is a testimony to a life of radiance and audacity compared to continuing gradually and without difference.
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