To reform a world, to reform a nation, no wise man will undertake and all but foolish men know, that the only solid, though a far slower reformation, is what each begins and perfects on himself.

Summary

This quote asserts that attempting to reform the entire world or nation is a task that only foolish individuals would undertake, as true and lasting change originates from each person's efforts to transform themselves. It implies that personal reform is a slower but more solid path towards reformation, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement as a precursor to any meaningful changes in wider society. Overall, the quote suggests that focusing on individual growth is a more rational and effective approach to bringing about positive change.