Famous quote by Olympia Brown

"He who never sacrificed a present to a future good or a personal to a general one can speak of happiness only as the blind do of colors"

About this Quote

Olympia Brown's quote is an extensive reflection on the nature of true joy, individual sacrifice, and the wider social good. At its core, the quote underscores the concept that authentic joy is typically lined up with one's ability to make sacrifices, either by foregoing immediate gratification for the sake of a more advantageous future or by prioritizing the greater excellent over personal interests.

The first part of the quote, "He who never compromised a present to a future good", recommends that individuals who are not able or reluctant to postpone instant satisfaction for the sake of long-term benefits lack an understanding of real happiness. This is comparable to the principle of delayed satisfaction, a concept in psychology and individual finance that highlights the significance of withstanding the temptation for an instant reward in favor of a more enduring advantage. Brown suggests that this ability to visualize and work toward a future that is more satisfying is integral to attaining a much deeper sense of happiness.

The second sector, "or an individual to a basic one", expands this idea of sacrifice to a social dimension. It talks to the need of in some cases quiting individual gain for the benefit of a bigger community. This aspect of the quote ties into moral viewpoints that stress selflessness and the significance of thinking about the typical good. It presumes that real satisfaction frequently originates from adding to the well-being of others, not simply concentrating on oneself.

The contrast to "the blind do of colors" is a plain metaphor that illustrates the limited understanding someone may have of happiness if they never ever practice such sacrifices. Just as a blind person can not totally envisage colors without the capacity for vision, an individual who does not engage in these kinds of sacrifice can not totally understand or experience genuine joy.

In conclusion, Brown's quote obstacles individuals to assess the sacrifices they make or prevent and to understand that such choices deeply impact their sense of fulfillment and joy. It serves as a suggestion that both expecting future rewards and thinking about the wellness of others are integral to a well-rounded and meaningful life.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by Olympia Brown between January 5, 1853 and October 23, 1926. He/she was a famous Activist from USA. The author also have 4 other quotes.
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