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It is sometimes of God's mercy that men in the eager…

“It is sometimes of God's mercy that men in the eager pursuit of worldly aggrandizement are baffled; for they are very like a train going down an inclined plane - putting on the brake is not pleasant, but it keeps the car on the track and from ruin.” quote by Henry Ward Beecher
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“It is sometimes of God's mercy that men in the eager pursuit of worldly aggrandizement are baffled; for they are very like a train going down an inclined plane - putting on the brake is not pleasant, but it keeps the car on the track and from ruin.”

Henry Ward Beecher

About This Quote

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

Ambition can become destructive unless tempered by humility, like a train that must brake to stay on track.

In simple terms: Ambition needs humility to avoid disaster.

Key Takeaway

Apply humility to curb reckless ambition.

Themes

humility ambition self‑control

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice spiritual

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • financial investing
  • political power
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

ethics risk management spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance drive with humility?
  • What brakes do you need in your life?
A Different Perspective

Excessive caution may stifle progress or innovation.

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