"There is such a thing as doing good that evil may come"
- Samuel Butler
About this Quote
This quote by Samuel Butler suggests that often, even when we are attempting to do excellent, the outcome can be unfavorable. It implies that our actions, no matter how well-intentioned, can have unexpected effects. It is a tip that we need to be mindful of the potential effects of our actions, which we should make every effort to do great in a manner that will not result in negative outcomes. This quote likewise functions as a warning that even when we are attempting to do good, we ought to understand that our actions can have unintentional effects. We need to understand the potential for our excellent intents to cause negative results, and strive to do good in such a way that will not result in such results. Ultimately, this quote works as a tip that we need to be mindful of the prospective effects of our actions, and aim to do great in a manner that will not cause negative outcomes.