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If all were perfect, what should we have to suffer from…

“If all were perfect, what should we have to suffer from others for God's sake? But God has so ordained, that we may learn to bear with one another's burdens, for there is no man without fault, no man without burden, no man sufficient to himself nor wise enough. Hence we must support one another…” quote by Thomas à Kempis
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““If all were perfect, what should we have to suffer from others for God's sake? But God has so ordained, that we may learn to bear with one another's burdens, for there is no man without fault, no man without burden, no man sufficient to himself nor wise enough. Hence we must support one another, console one another, mutually help, counsel, and advise, for the measure of every man's virtue is best revealed in time of adversity -- adversity that does not weaken a man but rather shows what he is.””

Thomas à Kempis

About This Quote

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

Human imperfection necessitates mutual support; suffering together reveals virtue and strengthens character.

In simple terms: We need each other because nobody is perfect.

Key Takeaway

Help others, grow together.

Themes

community virtue adversity compassion

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • family crises
  • workplace conflicts
  • health challenges
  • community projects

Key Concepts

Christian ethics human frailty mutual aid

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance helping others with self‑care?
  • When does shared suffering become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Support can become enabling if boundaries aren't set.

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