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Burden Quote by May Sarton

“The gift turned inward, unable to be given, becomes a heavy burden, even sometimes a kind of poison. It is as though the flow of life were backed up.” quote by May Sarton
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“The gift turned inward, unable to be given, becomes a heavy burden, even sometimes a kind of poison. It is as though the flow of life were backed up.”

May Sarton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Little World, May Sarton, 1971

When generosity is withheld, it turns into a painful weight that can poison the giver, blocking life's natural flow.

In simple terms: Unshared gifts become burdens that hurt.

Key Takeaway

Share freely to avoid emotional blockage.

Themes

generosity burden emotional health relationships

Mood

reflective somber

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family dynamics
  • workplace teamwork
  • personal relationships
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

psychology self‑care boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gifts are you holding back?
  • How does withholding affect your wellbeing?
A Different Perspective

If you keep giving without receiving, you may feel resentful or exhausted.

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