Ambition Quote by John Ruskin
“There are, indeed, two forms of discontent: one laborious, the other indolent and complaining. We respect the man of laborious desire, but let us not suppose that his restlessness is peace, or his ambition meekness. It is because of the special connection of meekness with contentment that it is promised that the meek shall 'inherit the earth.' Neither covetous men, nor the grave, can inherit anything; they can but consume. Only contentment can possess.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Nature of Discontent”, 1853
Two types of dissatisfaction are described: restless ambition and lazy complaining; true contentment, not greed or death, is the only lasting possession.
In simple terms: Two discontent types; only contentment endures.
Key Takeaway
Seek genuine contentment over restless desire.
Themes
discontent
contentment
ambition
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- career planning
- personal growth
- financial decisions
Key Concepts
Philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your dissatisfaction?
- Can you find contentment without ambition?
A Different Perspective
Contentment may be hard to achieve without effort.
