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Children Quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky

“Let us first fulfill Christ's injunction ourselves and only then venture to expect it of our children. Otherwise we are not fathers, but enemies of our children, and they are not our children, but our enemies, and we have made them our enemies ourselves.” quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky
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“Let us first fulfill Christ's injunction ourselves and only then venture to expect it of our children. Otherwise we are not fathers, but enemies of our children, and they are not our children, but our enemies, and we have made them our enemies ourselves.”

Fyodor Dostoevsky

About This Quote

Source Novel: Crime and Punishment, 1866

One must embody moral teachings before demanding them from the next generation, otherwise the relationship becomes hostile.

In simple terms: Live the values you want others to follow.

Key Takeaway

Model the behavior you expect.

Themes

parenting morality responsibility

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family upbringing
  • education
  • community mentoring

Key Concepts

ethical leadership self‑reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you align your actions with your teachings?
  • What habits model the moral values in your household?
A Different Perspective

Children may reject lessons if parents act inconsistently.

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