The professional must learn to be moved and touched emotionally, yet at the same time stand back objectively: I've seen a lot of damage done by tea and sympathy.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between empathy and objectivity in professional settings. While professionals should cultivate the ability to understand and be emotionally engaged with others, it is crucial to maintain a certain distance and objectivity to avoid potential harm or bias. The reference to "tea and sympathy" highlights the potential pitfalls of providing excessive emotional support without maintaining a professional stance. It serves as a reminder that professionalism requires the ability to navigate emotions without compromising the goal of providing effective and unbiased professional assistance.

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