Moral authority is never retained by any attempt to hold on to it. It comes without seeking and is retained without effort.

Summary

This quote suggests that moral authority cannot be obtained or maintained through force or deliberate efforts. True moral authority, according to the quote, is instead acquired naturally and effortlessly. It implies that trying too hard to possess moral authority can actually lead to its loss. It suggests that moral authority arises from the inherent trust and respect others have for someone's genuine character and ethical behavior, rather than from any intentional actions or attempts to assert authority. Thus, moral authority is most effective when it is earned organically, rather than being forced or contrived.

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