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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote observes that creatures without backbones often have the hardest shells.
In plain terms
Those without internal strength often develop the hardest exteriors.
What can you take from it?
Hard outer shells often cover internal vulnerability.

Where it applies

  • personal defense
  • emotional analysis

Putting it to work

  • building resilience
  • vulnerability management

Questions to consider

  • What hard shell do you wear?
  • Why do you protect yourself so fiercely?

Another view

It uses a generalization that may not fit all individuals.

More from Khalil Gibran

  1. Safeguarding the rights of others is the most noble and beautiful end of a human being.

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  2. Friendship is always a sweet responsibility, never an opportunity.

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  3. If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were always yours. And if they don't, they never were.

    Permalink to quote #73

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