Skip to content

The man who is wise, therefore, will see his life as more…

“The man who is wise, therefore, will see his life as more like a reservoir than a canal. The canal simultaneously pours out what it receives; the reservoir retains the water till it is filled, then discharges the overflow without loss to itself ... Today there are many in the Church who act like…” quote by Bernard of Clairvaux
Download Open image
““The man who is wise, therefore, will see his life as more like a reservoir than a canal. The canal simultaneously pours out what it receives; the reservoir retains the water till it is filled, then discharges the overflow without loss to itself ... Today there are many in the Church who act like canals, the reservoirs are far too rare ... You too must learn to await this fullness before pouring out your gifts, do not try to be more generous than God.””

Bernard of Clairvaux

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Wisdom is likened to a reservoir that stores and releases gifts wisely, unlike a canal that empties instantly; patience precedes generosity.

In simple terms: Patience before giving.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate patience before generosity.

Themes

patience generosity wisdom spirituality

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • charitable work
  • teaching
  • leadership
  • spiritual growth

Key Concepts

reservoir metaphor spiritual discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance giving and receiving?
  • When should you hold back?
A Different Perspective

Rushing generosity can deplete resources.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Bernard of Clairvaux

Explore all 120 Bernard of Clairvaux quotes

More Life quotes

Browse all 265,290 Life quotes