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He (Cato) used to say that in all his life he never…

“He (Cato) used to say that in all his life he never repented but of three things. The first was that he had trusted a woman with a secret; the second that he had gone by sea when he might have gone by land; and the third, that had passed one day without having a will by him.” quote by Plutarch
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“He (Cato) used to say that in all his life he never repented but of three things. The first was that he had trusted a woman with a secret; the second that he had gone by sea when he might have gone by land; and the third, that had passed one day without having a will by him.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

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

Cato regrets three missed opportunities: trusting a woman with secrets, choosing a risky sea route, and dying without a will.

In simple terms: Cato missed chances in trust, travel, and estate planning.

Key Takeaway

Plan trust, travel wisely, and draft a will.

Themes

regret trust travel legacy

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • business negotiations
  • vacation planning
  • estate planning
  • legal advice

Key Concepts

Stoicism personal responsibility risk management

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust too quickly?
  • Are you avoiding necessary legal steps?
A Different Perspective

Cato’s reflection may overlook benefits of risk and intimacy.

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