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None of us has ever seen a motive. Therefore, we don't…

“None of us has ever seen a motive. Therefore, we don't know we can't do anything more than suspect what inspires the action of another. For this good and valid reason, we're told not to judge. Tragedy is that our attention centers on what people are not, rather than on what they are and who they…” quote by Brennan Manning
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“None of us has ever seen a motive. Therefore, we don't know we can't do anything more than suspect what inspires the action of another. For this good and valid reason, we're told not to judge. Tragedy is that our attention centers on what people are not, rather than on what they are and who they might become.”

Brennan Manning

About This Quote

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

We lack insight into others’ motives, leading to judgment and missed empathy.

In simple terms: We can’t see others’ motives, so we judge.

Key Takeaway

Practice empathy over judgment.

Themes

judgment empathy understanding

Mood

introspective empathetic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • interpersonal relationships
  • conflict resolution
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you better understand others?
  • What stops you from judging?
A Different Perspective

Assuming motives can be harmful without evidence.

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