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We compromise ourselves the day we are born. If we are…

“We compromise ourselves the day we are born. If we are looking for the original sin, there it is- our incapacity to live honestly with ourselves because we are human, because we are shackled by custom, by obligations and we accept compromise only in the light of our conscience, answerable as we…” quote by F. Sionil José
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“We compromise ourselves the day we are born. If we are looking for the original sin, there it is- our incapacity to live honestly with ourselves because we are human, because we are shackled by custom, by obligations and we accept compromise only in the light of our conscience, answerable as we are only to ourselves.”

F. Sionil José

About This Quote

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

Compromise begins at birth; original sin is our inability to live honestly due to customs and obligations.

In simple terms: Human compromise stems from societal pressures.

Key Takeaway

Strive for honest living despite constraints.

Themes

ethics human nature societal pressure

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • ethical debates
  • self‑reflection sessions

Key Concepts

personal integrity social expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • What compromises do you accept daily?
  • How can you honor conscience over custom?
A Different Perspective

Honesty can be socially risky.

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