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Activity Quote by Henry Ward Beecher

“When leisure is a selfish luxury, its very activity, when it stirs, is apt to be only a kind of indolence taking exercise, that it may the better digest its selfishness.” quote by Henry Ward Beecher
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“When leisure is a selfish luxury, its very activity, when it stirs, is apt to be only a kind of indolence taking exercise, that it may the better digest its selfishness.”

Henry Ward Beecher

About This Quote

Source Essay: Moral Reflections, 1865

Leisure, when pursued selfishly, becomes a form of idle indulgence that must be justified by its usefulness.

In simple terms: Selfish leisure is idle indulgence.

Key Takeaway

Seek purposeful leisure.

Themes

leisure selfishness purpose morality

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • vacation planning
  • hobby selection
  • work‑life balance

Key Concepts

ethical reflection time management personal fulfillment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What activities turn leisure into growth?
  • How do you assess the value of your downtime?
A Different Perspective

Leisure can be restorative, not merely selfish.

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