"Moderation in temper is always a virtue; but moderation in principle is always a vice"

This quote by Thomas Paine speaks to the value of balance in life. He is recommending that it is very important to have a moderate temper, implying to not be too severe in our feelings or reactions. Nevertheless, he is also recommending that it is not wise to be moderate in our concepts. This suggests that we need to be firm in our beliefs and values, and not waver in our convictions. We must be willing to stand up for what we believe in, even if it means going versus the grain.

Paine is suggesting that it is essential to have a balance between our feelings and our principles. We ought to be able to express our emotions in a healthy method, but also want to stand up for our beliefs and values. We ought to not be too severe in either direction, but rather strive for a balance in between the two. This quote is a reminder that it is essential to be mindful of our feelings and our principles, and to strive for a balance in between the two.