I don't remember ever being see-saw, when I'd made my mind…
“I don't remember ever being see-saw, when I'd made my mind up that a thing was wrong. It takes the taste out o' my mouth for things, when I know I should have a heavy conscience after 'em. I've seen pretty clear, ever since I could cast up a sum, as you can never do what's wrong without breeding sin and trouble more than you can ever see. It's like a bit o' bad workmanship--you never see th' end o' the mischief it'll do. And it's a poor look-out to come into the world to make your fellow creatures worse off instead o' better.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote warns that ignoring moral conscience leads to hidden, escalating harm, corrupting both self and society.
In simple terms: Ignoring conscience creates hidden damage.
Key Takeaway
Listen to conscience, act responsibly.
Themes
morality
consequence
integrity
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- community building
- policy making
Key Concepts
ethical responsibility
cumulative harm
self‑deception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when small compromises become harmful?
- What steps can you take to align actions with conscience?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting conscience may be rationalized as minor, but harms compound over time.