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Consideration Quote by John Steinbeck

“There are several kinds of love. One is a selfish, mean, grasping, egotistical thing which uses love for self-importance. This is the ugly and crippling kind. The other is an outpouring of everything good in you — of kindness and consideration and respect — not only the social respect of manners…” quote by John Steinbeck
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“There are several kinds of love. One is a selfish, mean, grasping, egotistical thing which uses love for self-importance. This is the ugly and crippling kind. The other is an outpouring of everything good in you — of kindness and consideration and respect — not only the social respect of manners but the greater respect which is recognition of another person as unique and valuable. The first kind can make you sick and small and weak but the second can release in you strength, and courage and goodness and even wisdom you didn’t know you had.”

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

Source Novel: East of Eden by John Steinbeck, 1952

Love can be selfish and destructive or selfless and empowering, shaping personal growth and moral strength.

In simple terms: Love is either selfish or selfless, affecting our character.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate selfless love for growth.

Themes

love ethics personal development strength wisdom

Mood

hopeful inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • Relationships
  • personal challenges
  • ethical decisions

Key Concepts

Altruism egoism human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does selfless love look like in your life?
  • How can you protect yourself while giving freely?
A Different Perspective

Selfless love can be exploited or lead to burnout if not balanced.

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