"We are sometimes as different from ourselves as we are from others"

In this thought-provoking quote, François de La Rochefoucauld recommends that there are minutes in our lives when we become complete strangers to ourselves, simply as much as we are to others. At first look, it may seem counterproductive, as we tend to believe that we have a higher understanding of our own selves compared to anyone else. Nevertheless, La Rochefoucauld advises us that we are intricate beings with ever-changing thoughts, emotions, and viewpoints. There are circumstances where we amaze ourselves by acting or thinking in ways we never ever expected, therefore highlighting the fundamental duality of our nature. This quote encourages contemplation about the enigmatic aspects of our own selves, highlighting that self-discovery is a constant journey of understanding.