Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays:

All infractions of love and equity in our social relations are speedily punished. They are punished by fear. Whilst I stand in simple relations to my fellow-man, I have no displeasure in meeting him. We meet as water meets water, or as two currents of air mix, with perfect diffusion and interpenetration of nature. But as soon as there is any departure from simplicity, and attempt at halfness, or good for me that is not good for him, my neighbour feels the wrong; he shrinks from me as far as I have shrunk from him; his eyes no longer seek mine; there is war between us; there is hate in him and fear in me.

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Summary

This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson suggests that any violations of love and fairness in our social interactions are swiftly met with punishment in the form of fear. When we have a simple and harmonious relationship with others, there is no conflict or discomfort in meeting them. Similar to how water naturally blends with water and air currents intermingle, there is a smooth and seamless connection in our interactions. However, once this simplicity is disrupted by selfishness or a lack of consideration for the other person's well-being, the wronged party feels the injustice and withdraws from the relationship. This leads to animosity and fear between individuals, highlighting the consequences of departing from love and equity.

Topics

Relationships

By Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays:

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