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Love Quote by Thomas Traherne

“Had we not loved ourselves at all, we could never have been obliged to love anything. So that self-love is the basis of all love…” quote by Thomas Traherne
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“Had we not loved ourselves at all, we could never have been obliged to love anything. So that self-love is the basis of all love…”

Thomas Traherne

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Soul's Integrity, 1650s

Self‑love is the prerequisite for loving others; without valuing ourselves we cannot truly care for anything else.

In simple terms: Love starts with self‑respect.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑acceptance first.

Themes

self‑love relationships ethics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • relationship counseling
  • parenting
  • team building

Key Concepts

moral philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your self‑esteem affect your capacity to love others?
  • Can self‑love coexist with humility?
A Different Perspective

Self‑love can become selfish if not balanced with empathy.

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