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Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly…

“Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house…” quote by O. Henry
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““Being wise, their gifts were no doubt wise ones, possibly bearing the privilege of exchange in case of duplication. And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the magi.””

O. Henry

About This Quote

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

Selfless sacrifice makes the giver the wisest, even when the gifts seem modest.

In simple terms: Giving selflessly makes you wise.

Key Takeaway

Value generosity over material gain.

Themes

selflessness wisdom gift-giving family love

Mood

warm reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • holiday celebrations
  • family gatherings
  • relationship milestones
  • charitable acts

Key Concepts

altruism sacrifice humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you give up for a loved one?
  • How does selfless giving change relationships?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest can undermine true generosity.

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