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There is a number among us, young and old, of all sorts…

“There is a number among us, young and old, of all sorts almost among us, that swarm up and down towns, and woods, and fields, whose care and work hitherto hath been like bees, only to get honey to their own hive.” quote by Thomas Shepard
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“There is a number among us, young and old, of all sorts almost among us, that swarm up and down towns, and woods, and fields, whose care and work hitherto hath been like bees, only to get honey to their own hive.”

Thomas Shepard

About This Quote

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

People work tirelessly for personal gain, similar to bees gathering honey for their own benefit.

In simple terms: Many labor for self‑interest.

Key Takeaway

Recognize self‑interest motives.

Themes

labor self‑interest human nature

Mood

analytical neutral

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • community projects
  • entrepreneurship
  • volunteerism

Key Concepts

economics social behavior motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your effort?
  • How can you balance personal gain with community benefit?
A Different Perspective

Not all actions are selfish; some are altruistic.

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