The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with their friendship.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True friendship comes from spiritual inspiration and mutual trust rather than just gestures.
- In plain terms
- Real friendship is about trusting each other deeply.
- What can you take from it?
- Seek friendships based on deep trust.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you feel truly known?
- How do you build trust?
Another view
It idealizes friendship and ignores practical support.
More from Ralph Waldo Emerson
The end of the human race will be that it will eventually die of civilization.
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