Ninety per cent of the world's woe comes from people not knowing themselves, their abilities, their frailties, and even their real virtues. Most of us go almost all the way through life as complete strangers to ourselves - so how can we know anyone else?

Summary

This quote highlights the importance of self-awareness in our lives. It suggests that much of the suffering and difficulties faced by individuals and the world as a whole stem from a lack of self-knowledge. By not understanding our own abilities, weaknesses, and true strengths, we go through life alienated from ourselves. This ignorance prevents us from fully knowing and understanding others as well. The quote emphasizes the significance of introspection and self-reflection in order to enhance not only our relationship with ourselves but also our understanding of others.