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About this quote

What does it mean?
Hayes admits strict avoidance of evil appearances sometimes deprived him of innocent joys.
In plain terms
Avoiding bad appearances sometimes took away harmless fun.
What can you take from it?
Excessive caution can reduce life enjoyment.

Where it applies

  • social interactions
  • public conduct
  • personal choices

Putting it to work

  • balance caution and joy
  • avoid unnecessary restraint
  • evaluate risks

Questions to consider

  • Is avoiding evil worth the cost?
  • How strict should moral conduct be?

Another view

Appearance often matters more than reality in public life.

More from Rutherford B. Hayes

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