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But if we love ourselves in the wrong way, we become…

“But if we love ourselves in the wrong way, we become incapable of loving anybody else. And indeed when we love ourselves wrongly we hate ourselves; if we hate ourselves we cannot help hating others.” quote by Thomas Merton
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““But if we love ourselves in the wrong way, we become incapable of loving anybody else. And indeed when we love ourselves wrongly we hate ourselves; if we hate ourselves we cannot help hating others.””

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

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

Self‑love that is self‑absorbed prevents genuine love for others; misdirected self‑hatred breeds hatred toward others.

In simple terms: Wrong self‑love blocks love for others.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate healthy self‑respect to love others.

Themes

self‑love self‑hatred empathy spirituality relationships

Mood

contemplative encouraging thoughtful

Type

spiritual psychological

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • spiritual practice
  • conflict resolution
  • personal development

Key Concepts

psychology spiritual growth interpersonal dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance self‑care with humility?
  • What practices help transform self‑hatred?
A Different Perspective

Self‑criticism can become a barrier to compassion.

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