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About this quote

What does it mean?
Edwards commits to monitoring his conversation to avoid boasting about himself and to examine why he speaks.
In plain terms
Watch what you say to avoid bragging.
What can you take from it?
Avoid seeking approval through talk.

Where it applies

  • socializing
  • public speaking
  • reflection

Putting it to work

  • listen more
  • check motives

Questions to consider

  • Why do you speak often?
  • How much do you seek approval?

Another view

Monitoring speech constantly can inhibit natural conversation.

More from Jonathan Edwards

  1. When I am giving the relation of a thing, remember to abstain from altering either in the matter or manner of speaking, so much, as that, if every one, afterwa…

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  2. The beauty of the world consists wholly of sweet mutual consents, either within itself or with the supreme being.

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  3. They say there is a young lady in [New Haven] who is beloved of that Great Being, who made and rules the world, and that there are certain seasons in which thi…

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