"Grandeur of character lies wholly in force of soul, that is, in the force of thought, moral principle, and love, and this may be found in the humblest condition of life"
- William Ellery Channing
About this Quote
In this quote, William Ellery Channing highlights the importance of inner strength and virtue over external achievements or status. He believes that true success of character is not measured by wealth, power, or social standing, but rather by the strength of one's soul. This strength is stemmed from one's ideas, moral principles, and capacity for love. Channing also recommends that this force of soul can be discovered in anyone, no matter their position in life. This highlights the idea that true achievement is not restricted to the elite, but can be present in the most modest and common people. Ultimately, Channing's words advise us that real character is specified by the qualities of our inner being, instead of our outward circumstances.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"