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Good Quote by Josef Pieper

“The "whole good" cannot be had, it would seem, without mustering all the strength of our inner life. Even in the sphere of external possessions there are goods which inherently demand, if they are to be truly ours, far more of us than mere acquisition. "'My garden,' the rich man said; his gardener…” quote by Josef Pieper
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““The "whole good" cannot be had, it would seem, without mustering all the strength of our inner life. Even in the sphere of external possessions there are goods which inherently demand, if they are to be truly ours, far more of us than mere acquisition. "'My garden,' the rich man said; his gardener smiled.””

Josef Pieper

About This Quote

Source Book: The Four Cardinal Virtues by Josef Pieper, 1966

True fulfillment requires inner strength; external possessions demand more of us than mere acquisition.

In simple terms: Inner life matters more than material gain.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner virtues.

Themes

virtue inner life materialism self‑discipline

Mood

inspirational philosophical ethical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • ethical decision‑making
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

cardinal virtues self‑knowledge ethical living

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner strengths do you need to develop?
  • How can you balance external goals with inner life?
A Different Perspective

Material pursuits can distract from inner growth.

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