We do not sustain ourselves in virtue by our own strength, but by the balancing of two opposed vices, just as we remain upright amidst two contrary gales. Remove one of the vices, and we fall into the other.

Summary

This quote suggests that maintaining virtuous behavior cannot solely rely on our personal strength or willpower. Instead, our virtue is upheld by finding a delicate balance between two opposite vices. For example, if we eliminate one vice, we would inevitably succumb to the other. In essence, it emphasizes the idea that virtue is a product of moderation and avoiding extremes, rather than solely relying on individual effort.

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