Friends

Commonplace minds usually condemn what is beyond the reach of their understanding. [François de La Rochefoucauld]

There's nobody who is not dangerous for someone. [Cf. Marquise de Sévigné on 'danger']

Do not think of your faults, still less of other's faults; look for what is good and strong, and try to imitate it. [John Ruskin]

Thought-pleasures

The outcome of good work may or may not be pleasant. It depends on where you are and who you are with. Not all are fair. There is reason to highlight it.

To be handy is also to rise above decrees - including some of others. Having the upper hand isn't too bad in all respects.

And facts may be tested for the sake of solidifying a living. And then the able man learns to compare while there is time. Consistent, full living is not too bad in every respect.

Further Words

"In Germany, they came first for the Communists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew.

Then they came for the trade unionists but I didn't speak up because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant.

Then they came for me, and by that time nobody was left to speak up."

- Martin Niemoeller, Dachau, 1944.