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About this quote

What does it mean?
True affection is earned through gentle character rather than physical beauty.
In plain terms
Inner kindness matters more than looks for winning love.
What can you take from it?
Focus on being kind rather than just looking good.

Where it applies

  • dating
  • marriage
  • friendship

Putting it to work

  • cultivate empathy
  • value character

Questions to consider

  • What qualities do you value most in a partner?

Another view

Physical attraction often plays a significant role in initial attraction.

More from Washington Irving

  1. Here's to your good health, and your family's good health, and may you all live long and prosper.

    Permalink to quote #32
  2. Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.

    Permalink to quote #34
  3. An inexhaustible good nature is one of the most precious gifts of heaven, spreading itself like oil over the troubled sea of thought, and keeping the mind smoo…

    Permalink to quote #31

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