We took tea, by Boswell's desire; and I eat one bun, I…
“We took tea, by Boswell's desire; and I eat one bun, I think, that I might not be seen to fast ostentatiously. When I find that so much of my life has stolen unprofitably away, and that I can descry by retrospection scarcely a few single days properly and vigorously employed, why do I yet try to resolve again? I try, because reformation is necessary and despair is criminal. I try, in humble hope of the help of God.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Despair is criminal; reformation demands humility and divine hope despite life's thefts.
In simple terms: Despair is wrong; hope and humility are needed.
Key Takeaway
Seek reform, reject despair.
Themes
faith
humility
reformation
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- moral philosophy
- religious practice
- self‑assessment
Key Concepts
existential crisis
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives you to keep trying?
- How does faith shape resilience?
A Different Perspective
Hope may feel insufficient.