It is right to look our life-accounts bravely in the face…
““It is right to look our life-accounts bravely in the face now and then, and settle them honestly. And he is a poor self-swindler who lies to himself while he reckons the items, and sets down under the head—happiness that which is misery. Call anguish—anguish, and despair—despair; write both down in strong characters with a resolute pen: you will the better pay your debt to Doom. Falsify: insert "privilege" where you should have written "pain;" and see if your mighty creditor will allow the fraud to pass, or accept the coin with which you would cheat him. Offer to the strongest—if the darkest angel of God's host—water, when he has asked blood—will he take it? Not a whole pale sea for one red drop.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Facing one's true emotional state honestly is essential; self‑deception leads to deeper misery, while confronting pain can bring relief and integrity.
In simple terms: Be honest about pain, not just happiness.
Key Takeaway
Write down true feelings, even if painful.
Themes
self‑awareness
integrity
psychology
spirituality
Mood
reflective
serious
introspective
Type
philosophical
motivational
literary
When to use this quote
- personal journaling
- therapy sessions
- spiritual contemplation
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
honesty
self‑deception
moral accounting
Questions to Reflect On
- What emotions are you avoiding?
- How might honesty change your current situation?
A Different Perspective
Self‑deception can be a coping mechanism that some find necessary for short‑term stability.