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Compassion Quote by John Eldredge

“We describe a person without compassion as “heartless,” and we urge him or her to “have a heart.” Our deepest hurts we call “heartaches.” Jilted lovers are “brokenhearted.” Courageous soldiers are “bravehearted.” The truly evil are “black-hearted” and saints have “hearts of gold.” If we need to…” quote by John Eldredge
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““We describe a person without compassion as “heartless,” and we urge him or her to “have a heart.” Our deepest hurts we call “heartaches.” Jilted lovers are “brokenhearted.” Courageous soldiers are “bravehearted.” The truly evil are “black-hearted” and saints have “hearts of gold.” If we need to speak at the most intimate level, we ask for a “heart-to-heart” talk. “Lighthearted” is how we feel on vacation. And when we love someone as truly as we may, we love “with all our heart.” But when we lose our passion for life, when a deadness sets in which we cannot...””

John Eldredge

About This Quote

Source Book: Wild at Heart, 2001

Explores how language uses heart metaphors to convey emotions and values.

In simple terms: Heart metaphors shape how we talk about feelings.

Key Takeaway

Notice the metaphors you use for emotions.

Themes

language emotion metaphor

Mood

introspective thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • writing
  • teaching
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

psychology communication spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do heart metaphors influence your emotional understanding?
  • Can alternative metaphors provide clearer insight?
A Different Perspective

Metaphors may oversimplify complex emotions.

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