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We are not wrong, perhaps, to be heedful of justice in the…

“We are not wrong, perhaps, to be heedful of justice in the midst of a universe that heeds not at all; as the bee is not wrong to make honey in a world that itself can make none. But we are wrong to desire an external justice, since we know that it does not exist. Let that which is in us suffice…” quote by Maurice Maeterlinck
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““We are not wrong, perhaps, to be heedful of justice in the midst of a universe that heeds not at all; as the bee is not wrong to make honey in a world that itself can make none. But we are wrong to desire an external justice, since we know that it does not exist. Let that which is in us suffice. All is for ever being weighed and judged in our soul. It is we who shall judge ourselves; or rather, our happiness is our judge.””

Maurice Maeterlinck

About This Quote

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

Human beings should trust inner moral judgment rather than seek external justice, which may not exist, and let personal conscience be the ultimate judge.

In simple terms: Inner conscience guides us more reliably than external systems.

Key Takeaway

Listen to your inner moral compass.

Themes

philosophy ethics self‑reflection

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • ethical dilemmas
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

inner justice subjective morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner values guide your choices?
  • Can personal conscience replace societal laws?
A Different Perspective

External justice systems can still play a role in society.

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