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Character Quote by John Lancaster Spalding

“Friends humor and flatter us, they steal our time, they encourage our love of ease, they make us content with ourselves, they are the foes of our virtue and our glory.” quote by John Lancaster Spalding
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“Friends humor and flatter us, they steal our time, they encourage our love of ease, they make us content with ourselves, they are the foes of our virtue and our glory.”

John Lancaster Spalding

About This Quote

Source Sermon: The Dangers of Comfort, 1915

Friends can distract us with flattery and ease, undermining virtue and glory.

In simple terms: Friends may hinder personal growth through comfort.

Key Takeaway

Guard against complacency in relationships.

Themes

virtue friendship self‑discipline

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • spiritual practice
  • personal development
  • leadership

Key Concepts

ethics psychology social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which relationships encourage growth versus stagnation?
  • How can you set boundaries without alienating friends?
A Different Perspective

Not all friendships are harmful; balance is needed.

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