We have flattered ourselves by inventing proverbs of…
““We have flattered ourselves by inventing proverbs of comparison in matter of blindness,--"blind as a bat," for instance. It would be safe to say that there cannot be found in the animal kingdom a bat, or any other creature, so blind in its own range of circumstance and connection, as the greater majority of human beings are in the bosoms of their families. Tempers strain and recover, hearts break and heal, strength falters, fails, and comes near to giving way altogether, every day, without being noted by the closest lookers-on.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human blindness to others’ struggles is common; empathy is often unnoticed.
In simple terms: We often ignore others’ pain.
Key Takeaway
Practice attentive empathy.
Themes
empathy
family
humanity
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- counseling
- family dynamics
- community work
Key Concepts
social blindness
emotional resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you become more aware of others’ suffering?
- What barriers prevent you from noticing?
A Different Perspective
Empathy may be limited by personal bias.