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Talent is a gift that brings with it an obligation to serve the world, and not ourselves, for it is not of our making. To use for our exclusive benefit what is not ours is theft. Culture, which makes talent shine, is not completely ours either, nor can we place it solely at our disposal. Rather, it belongs mainly to our country, which gave it to us, and to humanity, from which we receive it as a birthright. A selfish man is a thief.

Jose Marti#77

EthicsTalentWorkObligationService

About this quote

What does it mean?
Talents are gifts meant to serve others, not just the possessor.
In plain terms
Use your gifts to help the world, not just yourself.
What can you take from it?
Serve others with your talents.

Where it applies

  • professional life
  • community service
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • serve community
  • share skills
  • avoid selfishness

Questions to consider

  • Who do you serve?
  • Is your talent yours?

Another view

Personal ambition is also needed for self-sustainment.

More from Jose Marti

  1. 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 abomi…

    Permalink to quote #76
  2. He who could have been a torch and stoops to being a pair of jaws is a deserter.

    Permalink to quote #78
  3. Happiness exists on earth, and it is won through prudent exercise of reason, knowledge of the harmony of the universe, and constant practice of generosity. He …

    Permalink to quote #75

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