Unchanged within, to see all changed without, Is a blank lot and hard to bear, no doubt. Yet why at others' Wanings should'st thou fret? Then only might'st thou feel a just regret, Hadst thou withheld thy love or hid thy light In selfish forethought of neglect and slight.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of maintaining inner stability and not being affected by external changes. The speaker suggests that it can be difficult to witness changes in the world while remaining the same within. However, they question why one should be bothered by the decline or decline of others. They argue that only if one withholds their love or hides their true selves in selfishness would they have reason to regret. The quote encourages embracing one's own authenticity and not letting external circumstances dictate one's inner state.

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