I must be myself. I cannot break myself any longer for you, or you. If you can love me for what I am, we shall be the happier. If you cannot, I will still seek to deserve that you should. I will not hide my tastes or aversions. I will so trust that what is deep is holy, that I will do strongly before the sun and moon whatever inly rejoices me, and the heart appoints. If you are noble, I will love you; if you are not, I will not hurt you and myself by hypocritical attentions. If you are true, but not in the same truth with me, cleave to your companions; I will seek my own. I do this not selfishly, but humbly and truly. It is alike your interest, and mine, and all men's, however long we have dwelt in lies, to live in truth. Does this sound harsh to-day? You will soon love what is dictated by your nature as well as mine, and, if we follow the truth, it will bring us out safe at last.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The writer declares a need for authenticity, loving only if accepted as true self, and seeking truth over hypocrisy.
- In plain terms
- Be authentic; love if you accept me as I am.
- What can you take from it?
- Live truthfully, even if it feels harsh.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How to balance truth with compassion?
Another view
Total honesty can hurt others and damage relationships.
More from Ralph Waldo Emerson
Henceforward I am the truth's. Be it known unto you that henceforward I obey no law less than the eternal law. I will have no covenants but proximities.
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