If you are under obligations to many, it is prudent to…
“If you are under obligations to many, it is prudent to postpone the recompensing of one, until it be in your power to remunerate all; otherwise you will make more enemies by what you give, than by what you withhold.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Balancing many duties can cause unfairness; better to wait until you can fulfill all obligations equally.
In simple terms: Delay repayment until you can pay everyone fairly.
Key Takeaway
Wait to repay until you can satisfy all parties.
Themes
fairness
responsibility
justice
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
ethical
practical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal loans
- team projects
- family support
Key Concepts
ethical duty
reciprocity
conflict avoidance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you prioritize obligations?
- What risks arise from delaying repayment?
A Different Perspective
If you wait too long, you may lose trust or miss opportunities.