How many people would like to be good, if only they might…
“How many people would like to be good, if only they might be good without taking trouble about it! They do not like goodness well enough to hunger and thirst after it, or to sell all that they have that they may buy it; they will not batter at the gate of the kingdom of heaven; but they look with pleasure on this or that aerial castle of righteousness, and think it would be rather nice to live in it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often desire goodness but avoid the effort and sacrifice it demands.
In simple terms: Goodness requires effort, not just desire.
Key Takeaway
Commit to active goodness despite inconvenience.
Themes
morality
effort
desire
spirituality
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- charitable work
- personal integrity
- community service
- daily choices
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What effort are you willing to make for virtue?
- How can you turn desire into action?
A Different Perspective
Convenient comforts often outweigh moral discipline.