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Acting Quote by Norman Vincent Peale

“No sin is committed merely because a thought enters the mind, provided it is not made welcome. Perhaps we may use the figure that the thought first passes into an anteroom, where it stands before the mind acting as a judge. No matter how sordid or evil, it has not touched the personality with its…” quote by Norman Vincent Peale
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“No sin is committed merely because a thought enters the mind, provided it is not made welcome. Perhaps we may use the figure that the thought first passes into an anteroom, where it stands before the mind acting as a judge. No matter how sordid or evil, it has not touched the personality with its infamy nor in any way laid guilt upon the soul unless and until the mind acting as judge admits it with a welcome. If the mind decides against it and dismisses it, the personality is not only unsullied but is, on the contrary, by this act of rejection stimulated and strengthened in moral power.”

Norman Vincent Peale

About This Quote

Source Book: The Power of Positive Thinking, 1952

Thoughts become sins only when we accept and nurture them; rejecting harmful thoughts preserves moral integrity and can strengthen character.

In simple terms: Reject bad thoughts to stay morally clean.

Key Takeaway

Dismiss harmful ideas to grow morally.

Themes

morality mindfulness self‑control

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • therapy
  • daily decision‑making
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

psychology ethics cognitive discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide which thoughts to welcome?
  • What practices help you let go of unwanted ideas?
A Different Perspective

Rejection may be difficult and can cause internal conflict if not managed mind.

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