Action Quote by B. C. Forbes
“Courtesy is doing that which nothing under the sun makes you do but human kindness. Courtesy springs from the heart; if the mind prompts the action, there is a reason; if there be a reason, it is not courtesy, for courtesy has no reason. Courtesy is good will, and good will is prompted by the heart full of love to be kind. Only the generous man is truly courteous. He gives freely without a thought of receiving anything in return.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Unknown source, likely 19th‑century moral treatise
Courtesy is spontaneous kindness arising from love, not from rational calculation or expectation of reward.
In simple terms: Kindness comes from the heart, not the mind.
Key Takeaway
Act kindly without seeking reasons or returns.
Themes
kindness
generosity
motivation
Mood
warm
reflective
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- helping strangers
- team leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
human nature
altruism
intrinsic motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you do if no one ever noticed?
- How can you cultivate heart‑driven generosity?
A Different Perspective
If actions are driven by self‑interest, they may be perceived as insincere.
