Amiable Quote by Saint Francis de Sales
“Without a doubt, one of the things which keeps us from attaining perfection is our tongue. When one has reached the point of no longer committing faults in speech, he has surely reached perfection, as was said by the Holy Spirit. The worst defect in talking is talking too much. Hence, in speech be brief and virtuous, brief and gentle, brief and simple, brief and charitable, brief and amiable.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Introduction to the Devout Life, 1609
Excessive speech hinders moral perfection; brevity and kindness in words reflect spiritual maturity.
In simple terms: Speak briefly and kindly.
Key Takeaway
Practice concise, gentle communication.
Themes
speech
virtue
humility
perfection
discipline
Mood
contemplative
calm
Type
ethical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- personal relationships
- writing
- teaching
Key Concepts
ethical communication
spiritual discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- What benefits arise from speaking less?
- How can you cultivate brief, charitable speech?
A Different Perspective
Cultural norms may value verbosity over brevity.
