I confess that altruistic and cynically selfish talk seem…
“I confess that altruistic and cynically selfish talk seem to me about equally unreal. With all humility, I think whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might, infinitely more important than the vain attempt to love one's neighbor as one's self. If you want to hit a bird on the wing you must have all your will in focus, you must not be thinking about yourself, and equally, you must not be thinking about your neighbor; you must be living with your eye on that bird. Every achievement is a bird on the wing.”
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 doubts both altruistic and selfish rhetoric, urging focused, selfless action toward a goal rather than self‑centered or neighbor‑centered concern.
In simple terms: Focus on the task, not on self or others.
Key Takeaway
Act with full commitment to the objective.
Themes
purpose
focus
action
selflessness
achievement
Mood
determined
serious
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- sports competition
- project leadership
- personal goals
- creative endeavors
Key Concepts
existentialism
moral philosophy
willpower
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance dedication with self‑care?
- What does “bird on the wing” symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting personal well‑being can lead to burnout.