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About this quote

What does it mean?
Genuine wisdom and speech are open and passionate, while lesser versions are argumentative and difficult.
In plain terms
Big wisdom is kind and speech is passionate; small wisdom fights and speech is grumpy.
What can you take from it?
Look for generosity and passion in wisdom rather than contention and cantankerousness.

Where it applies

  • evaluating leaders
  • assessing arguments
  • self-reflection

Putting it to work

  • speaking with passion
  • avoiding petty fights
  • valuing generosity

Questions to consider

  • Is your speech passionate or contentious?
  • Does wisdom always look generous?

Another view

It generalizes complex communication styles into binary categories.

More from Zhuangzi

  1. Great truths do not take hold of the hearts of the masses. And now, as all the world is in error, how shall I, though I know the true path, how shall I guide? …

    Permalink to quote #10
  2. Happiness is the absence of the striving for happiness.

    Permalink to quote #12
  3. Flow with whatever is happening and let your mind be free. Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing. This is the ultimate.

    Permalink to quote #9

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