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An act by which we make one friend and one enemy is a…

“An act by which we make one friend and one enemy is a losing game; because revenge is a much stronger principle than gratitude” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
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“An act by which we make one friend and one enemy is a losing game; because revenge is a much stronger principle than gratitude”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

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

Forming a friend and an enemy simultaneously is a losing strategy; revenge outweighs gratitude.

In simple terms: Making friends and enemies together leads to loss; revenge is stronger than gratitude.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate gratitude and avoid revenge-driven actions.

Themes

relationships ethics conflict

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • political alliances
  • business negotiations

Key Concepts

reciprocity revenge gratitude social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you chosen revenge over gratitude?
  • How can you transform rivalry into cooperation?
A Different Perspective

Revenge can perpetuate cycles of hostility.

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