Man is free; yet we must not suppose that he is at liberty to do everything he pleases, for he becomes a slave the moment he allows his actions to be ruled by passion. The man who has sufficient power over himself to wait until his nature has recovered its even balance is the truly wise man, but such beings are seldom met with.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Freedom requires self-control; being ruled by passion makes one a slave, and wisdom lies in balancing emotions.
- In plain terms
- You are free only if you control your passions.
- What can you take from it?
- Master your emotions to be truly free.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is freedom control or lack of restraint?
- Are you ruled by passion?
Another view
Some passions drive progress and should not be suppressed.
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