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The compass of compassion asks not what is good for me?…

“The compass of compassion asks not what is good for me? but what is good? Not what is best for me but what is best. Not what is right for me but what is right. Not how much can we take? but How much ought we leave? and how much might we give? Not what is easy but what is worthy. Not what is…” quote by Carl Safina
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“The compass of compassion asks not what is good for me? but what is good? Not what is best for me but what is best. Not what is right for me but what is right. Not how much can we take? but How much ought we leave? and how much might we give? Not what is easy but what is worthy. Not what is practical but what is moral.”

Carl Safina

About This Quote

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

Compassion asks for the greater good, not self‑interest, emphasizing moral duty over ease.

In simple terms: Compassion seeks what’s right for all.

Key Takeaway

Act with moral responsibility.

Themes

compassion ethics altruism

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • policy making
  • community service
  • environmental work

Key Concepts

moral philosophy social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sacrifices does true compassion demand?
  • How to balance self‑care with altruism?
A Different Perspective

May be impractical.

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