The Death of Marcus Aurelius

The Death of Marcus Aurelius

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Maxims of Goethe 18


The significance of the most harmless words and actions grows with the years, and if I see anyone about me for any length of time, I always try to show him the difference there is between sincerity, confidence, and indiscretion; nay, that in truth there is no difference at all, but a gentle transition from what is most innocent to what is most hurtful; a transition which must be perceived or rather felt. . . . 

Herein we must exercise our tact; otherwise in the very way in which we have won the favor of mankind, we run the risk of trifling it away again unawares. 

This is a lesson which a man learns quite well for himself in the course of life, but only after having paid a dear price for it; nor can he, unhappily, spare his posterity a like expenditure. 



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