The only reward of virtue is virtue; the only way to have a friend is to be one.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Virtue's reward is virtue itself, and true friendship comes from being a friend.
- In plain terms
- Being good and being a friend are their own rewards.
- What can you take from it?
- Cultivate virtue and be a friend to gain both.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define virtue in daily life?
- Can you be a friend without expecting reward?
Another view
It assumes others will respond in kind, which isn’t always true.
More from Ralph Waldo Emerson
Two may talk and one may hear, but three cannot take part in a conversation of the most sincere and searching sort.
Permalink to quote #123 I do then with my friends as I do with my books. I would have them where I can find them, but I seldom use them.
Permalink to quote #125 A friend may well be reckoned the masterpiece of nature.
Permalink to quote #122
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