If the man who turnips cries, Cry not when his father dies, 'Tis a proof that he had rather Have a turnip than his father.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- If a man cries for a turnip but not his father, he values the vegetable more.
- In plain terms
- Crying for an object instead of a parent shows what you value more.
- What can you take from it?
- Your priorities are shown by what you mourn.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What do your actions say about your values?
- How do we show grief?
Another view
People grieve differently and may not show it openly.
More from Samuel Johnson
There is in this world no real delight (excepting those of sensuality), but exchange of ideas in conversation.
Permalink to quote #101 He was a very good hater.
Permalink to quote #103 It is very strange, and very melancholy, that the paucity of human pleasures should persuade us ever to call hunting one of them.
Permalink to quote #100
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