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Balance Quote by James E. Faust

“There are times when each of us has to have some gumption to take a stand as to what we wish to preserve or change in order to maintain our self-respect and not be as "a reed shaken with the wind" (Matt. 11:7) . . . . We lose much credibility and strength, and we risk being weighed on an uneven…” quote by James E. Faust
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“There are times when each of us has to have some gumption to take a stand as to what we wish to preserve or change in order to maintain our self-respect and not be as "a reed shaken with the wind" (Matt. 11:7) . . . . We lose much credibility and strength, and we risk being weighed on an uneven balance, when, Don Quixote-like, we go around "tilting windmills".”

James E. Faust

About This Quote

Source Book: The Gospel of Matthew, New Testament, 1st century

Standing up for one’s principles requires courage and self‑respect, avoiding being swayed like a reed or chasing futile battles.

In simple terms: Courage protects self‑respect and credibility.

Key Takeaway

Act with conviction, not empty gestures.

Themes

courage integrity self‑respect

Mood

determined reflective

Type

advice motivational

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • personal boundaries
  • ethical dilemmas
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

principles credibility balance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What principles are worth defending today?
  • How do you balance firmness with flexibility?
A Different Perspective

Over‑assertion can alienate allies and cause burnout.

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