Dirty Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
“Remember that it is nothing to do your duty, that is demanded of you and is no more meritorious than to wash your hands when they are dirty; the only thing that counts is the love of duty; when love and duty are one, then grace is in you and you will enjoy a happiness which passes all understanding.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham, 1944
True fulfillment comes from loving one's duty, not merely performing it; when duty and love merge, inner grace and profound happiness arise.
In simple terms: Love your duty, not just do it.
Key Takeaway
Let love guide your responsibilities.
Themes
duty
love
inner peace
fulfillment
Mood
contemplative
inspired
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
spiritual
When to use this quote
- career
- volunteering
- family obligations
- personal projects
- caregiving
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethics
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you cultivate love for a task that feels burdensome?
- What does grace feel like in daily work?
A Different Perspective
If duty feels forced, love may not develop naturally.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
