What honest boy would pride himself on not picking pockets…
“What honest boy would pride himself on not picking pockets ? A thief who was trying to reform would. To be conceited of doing one's duty is then a sign of how little one does it, and how little one sees what a contemptible thing it is not to do it. Could any but a low creature be conceited of not being contemptible? Until our duty becomes to us common as breathing, we are poor creatures.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Pride in avoiding duty reveals moral weakness; true humility sees duty as natural and common.
In simple terms: Pride in duty shows moral weakness; humility sees duty as natural.
Key Takeaway
Embrace duty without seeking praise.
Themes
humility
duty
pride
morality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- leadership
- community service
Key Concepts
ethical responsibility
self‑awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when duty becomes a source of pride?
- What practices keep you humble in service?
A Different Perspective
Even modest duty can become a source of vanity if not checked.