Cost Quote by Jean de la Bruyere
“It is a proof of boorishness to confer a favor with a bad grace; it is the act of giving that is hard and painful. How little does a smile cost?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Les Caractères, 1688
Granting favors insincerely reveals selfishness; true generosity is difficult but rewarding.
In simple terms: Insincere kindness shows selfishness; genuine giving is hard but worthwhile.
Key Takeaway
Practice sincere generosity.
Themes
ethics
human nature
generosity
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace dynamics
- volunteering
- family interactions
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates your giving?
- How can you ensure your kindness is genuine?
A Different Perspective
Sincere generosity may be misunderstood or exploited.
![“The court is like a palace built of marble; I mean that it is made up of very hard but very polished people. [Fr., La cour est comme un edifice bati de marbre; je veux dire qu'elle est composee d'hommes fort durs mais fort polis.]” quote by Jean de la Bruyere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fcf/jean-de-la-bruyere-575_built_the-court-is-like-a-palace-built-of-marb_77288.jpg)
![“[Photography is ] likewise even French impressionists. So the Sculls bought pop. It was politics, and they moved with it. And I think that could be happening, to some degree, with photography, too. It doesn't cost as much to do it, either.” quote by Garry Winogrand](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2eb/garry-winogrand-2342_cost_photography-is-likewise-even-french-impr_2802.jpg)
