Balance Quote by Thomas a Kempis
“We would willingly have others perfect, and yet we amend not our own faults. We would have others severely corrected and will not be corrected ourselves. The large liberty of others displeases us, and yet we will not have our own desires denied us. We will have others kept under by strict laws, but in no sort will ourselves be restrained. And thus it appears how seldom we weigh our neighbor in the same balance with ourselves.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Imitation of Christ, Thomas à Kempis, 1410
People often demand strict standards for others while ignoring their own flaws, leading to double standards and hypocrisy.
In simple terms: We judge others harshly but excuse ourselves.
Key Takeaway
Check your own standards before criticizing others.
Themes
hypocrisy
self‑reflection
justice
fairness
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace feedback
- public policy
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
self‑awareness
social bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure you hold yourself to the same standards you expect of others?
- What habits help you notice your own double standards?
A Different Perspective
It can be hard to recognize one own bias, especially when social norms reinforce it.
