Capable Quote by Norman Cousins
“The individual is capable of both great compassion and great indifference. He has it within his means to nourish the former and outgrow the latter.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Anatomy of an Illness, Norman Cousins, 1979
People can nurture compassion and diminish indifference through conscious effort, choosing empathy over apathy.
In simple terms: Cultivate compassion, reduce indifference.
Key Takeaway
Practice empathy daily.
Themes
compassion
human nature
personal growth
choice
Mood
thoughtful
motivational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- conflict resolution
- team leadership
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
empathy
moral development
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What small actions can increase your empathy?
- How do you prevent compassion fatigue?
A Different Perspective
Compassion can be exhausted if not self‑cared.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
