Good thing Quote by Mark Twain
““It seems a pity that the world should throw away so many good things merely because they are unwholesome. I doubt if God has given us any refreshment which taken in moderation is unwholesome except microbes. Yet there are people who strictly deprive themselves of each and every eatable drinkable and smokable which has in any way acquired a shady reputation. They pay this price for health. And health is all they get for it. How strange it is it is like paying out your whole fortune for a cow that has gone dry.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Awful German Language” (1880) commentary on asceticism
People sacrifice pleasure for health, often paying too high a price for minimal benefit.
In simple terms: Giving up pleasures for health can be excessive.
Key Takeaway
Seek balanced health choices.
Themes
health
moderation
asceticism
Mood
contemplative
critical
Type
satirical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- dietary choices
- smoking cessation
- exercise regimens
Key Concepts
well‑being
self‑control
cost‑benefit
Questions to Reflect On
- What pleasures are worth keeping?
- How to find health without extreme sacrifice?
A Different Perspective
Extreme restriction may harm mental health and social life.
