Boys Quote by George MacDonald
“What honest boy would pride himself on not picking pockets ? A thief who was trying to reform would. To be conceited of doing one's duty is then a sign of how little one does it, and how little one sees what a contemptible thing it is not to do it. Could any but a low creature be conceited of not being contemptible? Until our duty becomes to us common as breathing, we are poor creatures.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Lost Princess by George MacDonald, 1884
Pride in avoiding duty reveals moral weakness; true humility sees duty as natural and common.
In simple terms: Pride in duty shows moral weakness; humility sees duty as natural.
Key Takeaway
Embrace duty without seeking praise.
Themes
humility
duty
pride
morality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- leadership
- community service
Key Concepts
ethical responsibility
self‑awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when duty becomes a source of pride?
- What practices keep you humble in service?
A Different Perspective
Even modest duty can become a source of vanity if not checked.
![“I wish I had [made that song]. No, I don't That would be to take it from somebody else. But it's mine for all that.' 'What makes it yours?' 'I love it so.' 'Does loving a thing make it yours?' 'I think so, Mother -- at least more than anything else can. . . . Love makes the only myness,' said…” quote by George MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/722/george-macdonald-295_love_i-wish-i-had-made-that-song-no-i-don-t-t_35103.jpg)
