"The squirrel that you kill in jest, dies in earnest"

This quote by Henry David Thoreau is a suggestion that even the tiniest of animals must be respected and treated with kindness. It is a caution versus taking life gently, even if it is done in jest. Thoreau is recommending that even if we are joking, the consequences of our actions can be major. He is reminding us that life is precious and should not be taken for approved. He is likewise recommending that we need to reconsider before we act, as our actions can have serious repercussions. This quote is a tip that even the smallest of animals need to be respected and treated with generosity. It is a caution against taking life gently, even if it is performed in jest. Thoreau is advising us that life is valuable and should not be considered approved. He is likewise suggesting that we ought to hesitate prior to we act, as our actions can have serious consequences. This quote is a pointer that we should be mindful of our actions and treat all living things with regard.