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Of course you will insist on modesty in the children, and…

“Of course you will insist on modesty in the children, and respect to their teachers, but if the boy stops you in your speech, cries out that you are wrong and sets you right, hug him!” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Of course you will insist on modesty in the children, and respect to their teachers, but if the boy stops you in your speech, cries out that you are wrong and sets you right, hug him!”

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 quote urges embracing correction from youth, valuing their honesty over preserving adult ego.

In simple terms: Listen to children’s truth, even if it challenges you.

Key Takeaway

Accept and appreciate honest correction.

Themes

humility learning authority growth

Mood

reflective encouraging

Type

ethical educational

When to use this quote

  • classroom
  • parenting
  • public speaking
  • mentoring

Key Concepts

self-reliance dialogue respect

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you model openness to correction?
  • What benefits arise from valuing a child’s perspective?
A Different Perspective

Adults may feel threatened, but humility fosters trust and learning.

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