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About this quote

What does it mean?
The roots of a tree work silently without seeking rewards for the fruit they help produce.
In plain terms
Hard work often happens without reward or recognition.
What can you take from it?
True contribution often goes unnoticed and unrewarded.

Where it applies

  • parenting
  • teamwork
  • community service

Putting it to work

  • valuing behind-the-scenes work
  • practicing humility

Questions to consider

  • Who works silently for you?
  • Do you seek rewards for your efforts?

Another view

It ignores that some rewards are necessary for sustainability.

More from Rabindranath Tagore

  1. Your idol is shattered in the dust to prove that God's dust is greater than your idol. ~ 51

    Permalink to quote #26
  2. Let this be my last word, that I trust in thy love. ~ 326

    Permalink to quote #28
  3. If you shed tears when you miss the sun, you also miss the stars. ~ 6

    Permalink to quote #25

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