"A puritan is a person who pours righteous indignation into the wrong things"

This quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton is a commentary on the nature of Puritans. A Puritan is somebody who is overly rigorous and moralistic in their beliefs and habits. They typically take a tough line on concerns and are quick to express their disapproval. Chesterton is suggesting that Puritans frequently take their exemplary indignation and put it into the wrong things. They might be excessively crucial of minor problems or take a difficult position on something that is not truly important. This quote is a tip to be conscious of how we express our opinions and to be sure that we are focusing our energy on the best things. It is also a tip to be open-minded and tolerant of other people's beliefs and opinions.