If you wish to be miserable, think about yourself, about…
“If you wish to be miserable, think about yourself, about what you want, what you like, what respect people ought to pay you, what people think of you; and then to you nothing will be pure. You will spoil everything you touch; you will make sin and misery for yourself out of everything God sends you; you will be as wretched as you choose.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Warns that self‑centered thinking breeds misery, as personal desires and pride corrupt actions and lead to self‑inflicted suffering.
In simple terms: Selfish thoughts cause personal ruin.
Key Takeaway
Avoid self‑absorption to prevent misery.
Themes
pride
selfishness
spirituality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
moral
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- spiritual counseling
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
ego
sin
human frailty
Questions to Reflect On
- How does self‑focus affect your wellbeing?
- Can humility replace pride?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex emotional states.