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When leisure is a selfish luxury, its very activity, when…

“When leisure is a selfish luxury, its very activity, when it stirs, is apt to be only a kind of indolence taking exercise, that it may the better digest its selfishness.” quote by Henry Ward Beecher
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“When leisure is a selfish luxury, its very activity, when it stirs, is apt to be only a kind of indolence taking exercise, that it may the better digest its selfishness.”

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.

Leisure, when pursued selfishly, becomes a form of idle indulgence that must be justified by its usefulness.

In simple terms: Selfish leisure is idle indulgence.

Key Takeaway

Seek purposeful leisure.

Themes

leisure selfishness purpose morality

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • vacation planning
  • hobby selection
  • work‑life balance

Key Concepts

ethical reflection time management personal fulfillment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What activities turn leisure into growth?
  • How do you assess the value of your downtime?
A Different Perspective

Leisure can be restorative, not merely selfish.

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