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About this quote

What does it mean?
The collection reflects on human ambition, the cruelty of indifference, and the value of small kindnesses.
In plain terms
People chase goals and hurt others without thinking, but true worth comes from caring about all living things.
What can you take from it?
Practice conscious empathy and avoid wasting potential on empty pursuits.

Where it applies

  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision making

Putting it to work

  • practice mindfulness
  • avoid unnecessary harm

Questions to consider

  • How do your actions affect the unseen?
  • What defines a life well lived?

Another view

The collection ignores structural causes of suffering beyond individual choice.

More from William Cowper

  1. The dogs did bark, the children screamed, Up flew the windows all; And every soul cried out, 'Well done!' As loud as he could bawl.

    Permalink to quote #61
  2. Now let us sing - Long live the king, And Gilpin, long live he; And, when he next doth ride abroad, May I be there to see!

    Permalink to quote #63
  3. Though on pleasure she was bent, She had a frugal mind.

    Permalink to quote #60

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