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THE BENEFIT OF KINDNESS

“A Benefit should be kept like a buried treasure, only to be dug up in necessity…. Nature bids us to do well by all…. Wherever there is a human being, we have an opportunity for kindness.”

- SENECA, ON THE HAPPY LIFE

Summary:
Seneca suggests that kindness and benefits we offer others should not be given for display but kept as valuable treasures, only shared when truly needed. He emphasizes that it is in our nature to do good for others, and every interaction with a fellow human being presents an opportunity to practice kindness.

Interpretation:
In real life, this means that we shouldn’t boast about the good we do for others. Instead, we should offer help quietly and without expectation, only when it truly matters. For example, helping a friend in need during tough times is more meaningful than performing random acts of kindness just to gain recognition. Every encounter with someone is a chance to be compassionate, and we should embrace that naturally.

 

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