Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The essence of the quote “Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame” resonates with the notion of humility and sincerity in performing acts of kindness or generosity. At its core, the quote suggests that genuine altruism is not seeking recognition or praise but rather quietly and modestly doing good deeds without the intention of gaining attention or acclaim.
The phrase “Do good by stealth” implies carrying out acts of kindness discreetly, without drawing attention to oneself. It encourages the idea of performing good deeds not for public acknowledgment but out of a genuine desire to help others or contribute positively to the world. This approach emphasizes the purity of intent and the sincerity of the action itself, rather than any external validation or reward.
The latter part of the quote, “and blush to find it fame,” underscores the humility that accompanies true altruism. It suggests that if recognition or fame does come as a result of one’s good deeds, the individual should feel a sense of embarrassment or modesty rather than seeking to bask in the limelight. The act of blushing symbolizes a genuine sense of modesty and discomfort with being in the spotlight for something that was done with the intention of remaining unnoticed.
In essence, this quote advocates for a form of virtuous behavior that is rooted in humility, selflessness, and authenticity. It challenges the notion of performing acts of kindness for the sake of external validation or recognition, instead emphasizing the intrinsic value of helping others without expectation of reward or acknowledgment. It invites individuals to reflect on their motives for doing good and encourages them to prioritize the genuine desire to make a positive impact over any desire for personal gain or acclaim.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.” is often attributed to Alfred Adler (Bio / Quotes). Alfred Adler was an Austrian psychotherapist and founder of the school of individual psychology, which emphasizes the uniqueness and unity of the individual.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
