Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Welcome evermore to gods and men is the self-helping man. For him all doors are flung wide: him all tongues greet, all honors crown, all eyes follow with desire. Our love goes out to him and embraces him, because he did not need it. We solicitously and apologetically caress and celebrate him, because he held on his way and scorned our disapprobation. The gods loved him because men hated him.
Summary
This quote suggests that a self-sufficient individual, who doesn't rely on others for help or approval, is highly esteemed and admired. Such a person is welcomed and honored by both gods and men. The quote highlights the paradoxical nature of this admiration, as the self-helping man is celebrated precisely because he didn't need the love and support offered to him. While the world criticizes and disapproves of him, the gods love him precisely because he is hated by mortals. The quote emphasizes the power and attraction of an independent and resistant individual.