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The pleasure of a good act is something to be remembered…

“The pleasure of a good act is something to be remembered - not in order to feed our complacency but in order to remind us that virtuous actions are not only possible and valuable, but that they can become easier and more delightful and more fruitful than the acts of vice which oppose and frustrate…” quote by Thomas Merton
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“The pleasure of a good act is something to be remembered - not in order to feed our complacency but in order to remind us that virtuous actions are not only possible and valuable, but that they can become easier and more delightful and more fruitful than the acts of vice which oppose and frustrate them.”

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.

Virtuous deeds bring lasting joy and become easier over time, contrasting with the fleeting, frustrating nature of selfish actions.

In simple terms: Good deeds feel good and get easier.

Key Takeaway

Practice kindness regularly.

Themes

morality joy self‑improvement

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • daily kindness
  • community service
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

virtue ethics habit formation psychology of reward

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you turn a small good deed into a habit?
  • What obstacles make virtuous actions feel difficult?
A Different Perspective

If one is already virtuous, the quote may overstate the ease of moral behavior.

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