Anticipation Quote by Henry L. Stimson
“The only deadly sin I know is cynicism.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Commentary, 1940
He claims cynicism is the only truly deadly sin, implying it erodes trust and action.
In simple terms: Cynicism is the most harmful sin.
Key Takeaway
Avoid cynicism to foster hope.
Themes
trust
optimism
politics
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- leadership
- community building
- policy making
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social decay
Questions to Reflect On
- What fuels your cynicism?
- How can you cultivate optimism?
A Different Perspective
Cynicism can be a protective response to disappointment.
![“We face the delicate question of the diplomatic fencing to be done so as to be sure Japan is put into the wrong and makes the first bad move. ... The question was how we should maneuver them [the Japanese] into the position of firing the first shot.” quote by Henry L. Stimson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a5d/henry-l-stimson-19815_delicate_we-face-the-delicate-question-of-the-dip_768422.jpg)
![“[It is hard to know what is good luck and what isn't and therefore whether we should be happy or sad about it. Only time will tell. For example...] The Talmud relates a story about two people who wanted to travel by boat. One broke his foot and was unable to make the trip, while his friend got on…” quote by Zelig Pliskin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/68d/zelig-pliskin-22951_anticipation_it-is-hard-to-know-what-is-good-luck-and_34545.jpg)
![“The only thing is that ordinarily when I do dance with [women] they think I am suddenly going to throw them over a table or twist them all around. All I want to do is one-two, one-two-three - a simple fox trot. But they're shaking with anticipation at the thought that I'm about to whip them around…” quote by Gene Kelly](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/073/gene-kelly-11878_anticipation_the-only-thing-is-that-ordinarily-when-i_44100.jpg)
