He who attends to his greater self becomes a great man, and he who attends to his smaller self becomes a small man.

Meaning

This quote articulates a concise principle related to life. It hints that life unfolds in unexpected ways and reminds us that unexpected events often teach us.

Theme

Themes related to life resonate because they touch daily life. They remind us that being present enriches experience and reflect that life affects every decision we make.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Mencius. This one stands out due to its focus on life.

Style and Structure

The quote builds on a contrast between expectation and reality, giving it emotional and intellectual impact.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life unfolds in unexpected ways.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.