Quote by Samuel Johnson, J. Boswell The L
Hope is itself a species of happiness, and, perhaps, the chief happiness which this world affords: but, like all other pleasures immoderately enjoyed, the excesses of hope must be expiated by pain; and expectations improperly indulged, must end in disappointment. If it be asked, what is the improper expectation which it is dangerous to indulge, experience will quickly answer, that it is such expectation as is dictated not by reason, but by desire; expectation raised, not by the common occurrences of life, but by the wants of the expectant; an expectation that requires the common course of things to be changed, and the general rules of action to be broken.
Summary
This quote explores the nature of hope and its relationship to happiness. It suggests that hope can bring happiness and joy to people's lives, but warns that excessive hope can lead to pain and disappointment. The author highlights that expectations rooted in desires rather than reason are dangerous and prone to disappointment. This improper expectation is characterized by a desire for the extraordinary, where one expects the ordinary course of life to be altered or rules to be broken. The quote conveys a message about the need to temper hope with reason and to manage expectations in order to maintain a balanced and realistic outlook on life.
Topics
Expectation
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