The folly which we might have ourselves committed is the one which we are least ready to pardon in another.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author observes that people are least willing to forgive others for mistakes they themselves would likely make.
- In plain terms
- We cannot forgive others for the same faults we have.
- What can you take from it?
- Hypocrisy often drives our judgment of others.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What faults do you judge most harshly?
- How does your own behavior affect your judgment?
Another view
Some mistakes are objectively harder to forgive.
More from Joseph Roux
Say nothing good of yourself, you will be distrusted; say nothing bad of yourself, you will be taken at your word.
Permalink to quote #3 The happiness which is lacking makes one think even the happiness one has unbearable.
Permalink to quote #5 Our experience is composed rathery of illusions that of wisdom acquired.
Permalink to quote #2
Related quotes
If you can take the hot lead enema, then you can cast the first stone.
Lenny BruceLenny Bruce quote #34 We ought to see far enough into a hypocrite to see even his sincerity.
Gilbert Keith ChestertonGilbert Keith Chesterton quote #80 As I know more of mankind, I expect less of them, and am ready now to call a man a good man, upon easier terms than I was formerly.
Samuel JohnsonSamuel Johnson quote #195