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Children Quote by Frances Hodgson Burnett

“You are nicer than I am,” said Sara. “I was too proud to try and make friends. You see, now that trials have come, they have shown that I am not a nice child. I was afraid they would. Perhaps”--wrinkling her forehead wisely--“that is what they were sent for.” “I don’t see any good in them,” said…” quote by Frances Hodgson Burnett
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““You are nicer than I am,” said Sara. “I was too proud to try and make friends. You see, now that trials have come, they have shown that I am not a nice child. I was afraid they would. Perhaps”--wrinkling her forehead wisely--“that is what they were sent for.” “I don’t see any good in them,” said Ermengarde stoutly. “Neither do I--to speak the truth,” admitted Sara, frankly. “But I suppose there might be good in things, even if we don’t see it. There might ”--doubtfully--“be good in Miss Minchin.””

Frances Hodgson Burnett

About This Quote

Source Novel: Little Women, 1868

Characters confront their own moral failings, recognizing that even those deemed unkind can possess hidden goodness.

In simple terms: People may have unseen goodness despite flaws.

Key Takeaway

Seek goodness in everyone.

Themes

morality self‑reflection redemption

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family dynamics
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

human nature ethical ambiguity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you recall a time you saw goodness in a difficult person?
  • How do you balance judgment and compassion?
A Different Perspective

Goodness may be rare and hard to discern.

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