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About this quote

What does it mean?
People often give away what they themselves need most.
In plain terms
People give away what they need most.
What can you take from it?
Guard your essential needs and share wisely.

Where it applies

  • charity
  • personal boundaries

Putting it to work

  • reflect on motives
  • set limits

Questions to consider

  • What do I give away that I need?
  • How can I balance generosity and self‑care?

Another view

Giving can also be a healthy expression of abundance.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. When one is in love, one always begins by deceiving one's self, and one always ends by deceiving others.

    Permalink to quote #79
  2. Experience was of no ethical value. It was merely the name men gave to their mistakes.

    Permalink to quote #81
  3. Women are a decorative sex. They never have anything to say, but they say it charmingly.

    Permalink to quote #78

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