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I pray my companion, if he wishes for bread, to ask me for…

“I pray my companion, if he wishes for bread, to ask me for bread, and if he wishes for sassafras or arsenic, to ask me for them, and not to hold out his plate, as if I knew already.” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“I pray my companion, if he wishes for bread, to ask me for bread, and if he wishes for sassafras or arsenic, to ask me for them, and not to hold out his plate, as if I knew already.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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 wishes his companion to request directly what they need, rather than assuming or holding back.

In simple terms: Ask directly for what you want.

Key Takeaway

Communicate needs openly.

Themes

honesty communication relationships

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • friendship
  • workplace
  • family
  • service

Key Concepts

autonomy trust directness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you often assume others’ needs?
  • How can you encourage open requests?
A Different Perspective

Assumptions can lead to misinterpretation and resentment.

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