This quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau talks to the concept that those who do not have a strong ethical compass or sense of purpose are unable to acknowledge the greatness of individuals. Rousseau is suggesting that those who are not grounded in their own values and beliefs are not able to acknowledge the achievement of others. He is suggesting that those who are not spiritually or ethically developed are unable to acknowledge the success of those who are. This quote speaks to the concept that those who are not spiritually or ethically established are unable to acknowledge the greatness of those who are. It is a tip that we must strive to be better people and to recognize the greatness of others. It is likewise a suggestion that we ought to not evaluate others based on their spiritual or moral development, but rather on their actions and character.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"