Active Quote by James McCosh
“Pride looks back upon its past deeds, and calculating with nicety what it has done, it commits itself to rest; whereas humility looks to that which is before, and discovering how much ground remains to be trodden, it is active and vigilant. Having gained one height, pride looks down with complacency on that which is beneath it; humility looks up to a higher and yet higher elevation. The one keeps us on this earth, which is congenial to its nature; the other directs our eye, and tends to lift us up to heaven.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Moral Philosophy, 19th century
Pride rests on past achievements and leads to complacency; humility looks forward, staying active and vigilant.
In simple terms: Pride stops progress; humility drives it.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility to stay motivated.
Themes
humility
pride
growth mindset
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career development
- education
- personal goals
- teamwork
Key Concepts
ethics
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates you to stay humble?
- How can you turn pride into constructive action?
A Different Perspective
Pride can sometimes protect confidence, making humility hard to adopt.
