Bread Quote by Anthony de Mello
“The philosopher Diogenes was eating bread and lentils for supper. He was seen by the philosopher Aristippus, who lived comfortably by flattering the king. Said Aristippus, "If you would learn to be subservient to the king you would not have to live on lentils." Said Diogenes, "Learn to live on lentils and you will not have to be subservient to the king.”
About This Quote
Source Anecdote: Diogenes and Aristippus, ancient Greek philosophers, recorded by various sources
A dialogue contrasting ascetic self‑reliance with comfortable servility to power, urging independence over flattery
In simple terms: Choose self‑sufficiency over pleasing authority
Key Takeaway
Live simply, avoid dependence on power
Themes
philosophy
independence
self‑reliance
power dynamics
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
aphilosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal budgeting
- career decisions
- political activism
- community organization
Key Concepts
Cynicism
Stoicism
ethical choice
Questions to Reflect On
- What freedoms do you sacrifice for comfort?
- How can you practice independence without isolation?
A Different Perspective
Self‑reliance may be impractical for many modern necessities
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