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Don't think of retiring from the world until the world…

“Don't think of retiring from the world until the world will be sorry that you retire. I hate a fellow whom pride or cowardice or laziness drive into a corner, and who does nothing when he is there but sit and growl. Let him come out as I do, and bark.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“Don't think of retiring from the world until the world will be sorry that you retire. I hate a fellow whom pride or cowardice or laziness drive into a corner, and who does nothing when he is there but sit and growl. Let him come out as I do, and bark.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

One should not abandon life until society feels the loss; pride, cowardice, or laziness trap people into passive bitterness.

In simple terms: Don't quit until you're missed; avoid passive bitterness.

Key Takeaway

Stay active, contribute, and resist complacency.

Themes

pride cowardice laziness passivity

Mood

reflective motivational

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career
  • community service
  • personal development

Key Concepts

social responsibility personal agency legacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your current actions?
  • How can you inspire others to act?
A Different Perspective

Passive attitudes can be hard to change once entrenched.

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