It passes in the world for greatness of mind, to be…
“It passes in the world for greatness of mind, to be perpetually giving and loading people with bounties; but it is one thing to know how to give and another thing not to know how to keep. Give me a heart that is easy and open, but I will have no holes in it; let it be bountiful with judgment, but I will have nothing run out of it I know not how.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Highlights the difficulty of giving generously while also preserving one's resources; seeks a balanced, abundant heart.
In simple terms: Giving is hard when you also need to keep enough.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate generosity without depletion.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
self‑control
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal finance
- charitable work
- emotional resilience
Key Concepts
stoicism
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to give without losing yourself?
- How can you maintain abundance while sharing?
A Different Perspective
Self‑preservation may limit true generosity.