The wisest man could ask no more of Fate Than to be simple, modest, manly, true, Safe from the Many-honored by the Few; To count as naught in World or Church or State; But inwardly in secret to be great.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True greatness is internal and does not require public honor.
- In plain terms
- Be great inside even if no one knows.
- What can you take from it?
- Value inner integrity over external praise.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes you feel great?
- Do you need approval to feel worthy?
Another view
Public recognition often helps advance good causes.
More from James Russell Lowell
How little inventiveness there is in man, Grave copier of copies, I give thanks For a new relish, careless to inquire My pleasure's pedigree, if so it please, …
Permalink to quote #25 But life is sweet, though all that makes it sweet Lessen like sound of friends' departing feet; And Death is beautiful as feet of friend Coming with welcome at…
Permalink to quote #27 Ye come and go incessant; we remain Safe in the hallowed quiets of the past; Be reverent, ye who flit and are forgot, Of faith so nobly realized as this.
Permalink to quote #24
Related quotes
On their own merits modest men are dumb.
George, the Younger ColmanGeorge, the Younger Colman quote #1 Dr. Rajendra Prasad was a true Bodhisatva. His humility brought tears to my eyes.
Tenzin GyatsoTenzin Gyatso quote #8 You are a vain fellow. You want to be a hero. That is why you do such silly things. A hero! ... I don't quite know what that is: but, you see, I imagine that a…
Romain RollandRomain Rolland quote #9