Just as he who gives his life to serve a great idea is admirable, he who avails himself of a great idea to serve his personal hopes of glory and power is abominable, even if he too risks his life. To give one's life is a right only when one gives it unselfishly.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Sacrifice for noble ideas is admirable only when done selflessly. Using grand causes for personal glory is condemnable regardless of risk.
- In plain terms
- Only selfless sacrifice for good causes is truly admirable.
- What can you take from it?
- Ensure your sacrifices serve the cause, not your ego.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why are you making this sacrifice?
- Is your cause greater than your ego?
Another view
Motivation is internal and hard to judge from outside.
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