"There is no odor so bad as that which arises from goodness tainted"

This quote by Henry David Thoreau is a reminder that even kind deeds can have negative effects. It recommends that when great intents are misdirected or misused, the results can be even worse than if no excellent deed had been done at all. The quote indicates that when good objectives are not properly thought out, they can result in more harm than good. It likewise recommends that when great objectives are used for selfish or malicious purposes, the consequences can be particularly undesirable. The quote works as a cautioning to be mindful of our objectives and to think thoroughly before taking action. Eventually, it advises us that even the very best of objectives can have unexpected repercussions.