Balance Quote by Bartholomew Roberts
“In an honest service there is thin commons, low wages, and hard labor; in this, plenty and satiety, pleasure and ease, liberty and power; and who would not balance creditor on this side, when all the hazard that is run for it, at worst, is only a sour look or two at choking. No, a merry life and a short one, shall be my motto.”
About This Quote
Source Diary: Pirate Life, 1720
A short, modest life of honest labor is preferable to a long, indulgent life of excess and power.
In simple terms: Honest, modest life over indulgent, powerful one.
Key Takeaway
Choose simplicity and integrity.
Themes
philosophy
life choices
morality
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
ethical
contemplative
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- financial planning
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
piracy
honesty
contentment
Questions to Reflect On
- What does a “short life” mean to you?
- How to balance modesty with ambition?
A Different Perspective
Simplicity may limit material comfort or influence.
