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About this quote

What does it mean?
A blunt warning against provoking something unpleasant that could cause trouble.
In plain terms
Do not mess with something dirty that might make things worse.
What can you take from it?
Avoid unnecessary trouble by leaving things alone.

Where it applies

  • daily life
  • conflict avoidance

Putting it to work

  • avoid provocation
  • pick your battles

Questions to consider

  • When should you walk away?
  • What counts as trouble?

Another view

It is too simplistic for complex moral choices.

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