Not in order to justify, but simply in order to explain my…
![“Not in order to justify, but simply in order to explain my lack of consistency, I say: Look at my present life and then at my former life, and you will see that I do attempt to carry them out. It is true that I have not fulfilled one thousandth part of them [Christian precepts], and I am ashamed…” quote by Leo Tolstoy](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/4c6/leo-tolstoy-55_accountability_not-in-order-to-justify-but-simply-in-or_623047.png)
““Not in order to justify, but simply in order to explain my lack of consistency, I say: Look at my present life and then at my former life, and you will see that I do attempt to carry them out. It is true that I have not fulfilled one thousandth part of them [Christian precepts], and I am ashamed of this, but I have failed to fulfill them not because I did not wish to, but because I was unable to. Teach me how to escape from the net of temptations that surrounds me, help me and I will fulfill them; even without help I wish and hope to fulfill them. Attack me, I do this myself, but attack me rather than the path I follow and which I point out to anyone who asks me where I think it lies. If I know the way home and am walking along it drunkenly, is it any less the right way because I am staggering from side to side! If it is not the right way, then show me another way; but if I stagger and lose the way, you must help me, you must keep me on the true path, just as I am ready to support you. Do not mislead me, do not be glad that I have got lost, do not shout out joyfully: “Look at him! He said he was going home, but there he is crawling into a bog!” No, do not gloat, but give me your help and support.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker admits inconsistency, seeks guidance, and asks for support to stay on a moral path despite temptations.
In simple terms: Admitting flaws and asking for help is essential for moral growth.
Key Takeaway
Seek help to stay on track.
Themes
morality
self‑improvement
faith
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal crises
- spiritual practice
- ethical decisions
- community support
Key Concepts
spiritual struggle
accountability
Questions to Reflect On
- Who can you trust for accountability?
- How do you handle setbacks?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on self‑will alone may fail without external support.