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About this quote

What does it mean?
Neither honor nor blame belongs to us, suggesting external forces determine outcomes.
In plain terms
We don't truly own praise or blame for what happens.
What can you take from it?
Recognize that factors beyond your control often shape outcomes.

Where it applies

  • team projects
  • public recognition
  • political outcomes

Putting it to work

  • team dynamics
  • managing expectations
  • personal accountability

Questions to consider

  • When did you take full blame?
  • When did you accept full praise?

Another view

Accepting no responsibility can lead to apathy.

More from William Cowper

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  2. I believe no man was ever scolded out of his sins.

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  3. Sweet stream that winds through yonder glade, Apt emblem of a virtuous maid Silent and chaste she steals along, Far from the world's gay busy throng: With gent…

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