"The language of excitement is at best picturesque merely. You must be calm before you can utter oracles"
- Henry David Thoreau
About this Quote
This quote by Henry David Thoreau is highlighting the importance of being calm and collected in order to have the ability to think clearly and make wise choices. He is recommending that when we are in a state of enjoyment, our thoughts and words are often not well considered and can be misleading. He is recommending that in order to have the ability to talk to knowledge and clearness, we need to initially be in a state of peace. He is likewise recommending that when we remain in a state of enjoyment, our words are typically not well thought out and can be extremely significant or exaggerated. He is highlighting the value of remaining in a state of peace in order to be able to think clearly and make wise decisions. By being in a state of calmness, we can be more thoughtful and articulate in our words and have the ability to make smart choices.
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality"
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
