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About this quote

What does it mean?
Acknowledging human capacity for evil does not preclude hope for goodness or improvement.
In plain terms
We've seen bad behavior, but we can still be good even if not perfect.
What can you take from it?
Experience with darkness should not destroy hope for light.

Where it applies

  • recovery from trauma
  • parenting
  • community building

Putting it to work

  • encourage incremental progress
  • validate past struggles
  • foster hope

Questions to consider

  • Is goodness achievable after great suffering?
  • What does 'pretty good' mean to you?

Another view

Optimism can sometimes ignore systemic issues that prevent change.

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