Among many morals which press upon us from the poor minister's miserable experience, we put only this into a sentence: - 'Be true! Be true! Be true! Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst may be inferred!'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True moral character requires being authentic and showing a trait that reveals your worst, as honesty is paramount.
- In plain terms
- Always be true and show yourself honestly, even your worst parts.
- What can you take from it?
- Be true and show your true self.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are you truly honest?
- What happens if you show your worst?
Another view
Showing your worst might lead to rejection by others.
More from Nathaniel Hawthorne
No man, for any considerable period, can wear one face to himself and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true.
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