A quote by W.H. Auden - "If equal affection cannot be, then let the more loving one be me."
It really struck me.
I don't think Auden is speaking about just romantic love; rather, he means this precept to apply to all kinds of love. Like if you see someone on the street who frowns, but instead of frowning back, you smile. Or if a co-worker is being petty and small-minded and it would be so easy to just reciprocate, you instead go just a bit out of the way to be nicer and more accommodating. Or if you feel tired and frustrated and snappy, and instead of lashing out at someone, you make a conscious effort to relax, take a deep breath, and be kind.
The quote could describe a whole ethical system; a way of living morally. It's simple yet profound. Something not just to remember, but to instill in oneself and live by...
No comments:
Post a Comment