Though we ought to be careful to bestow our benefits by preference… — Seneca · Smartyfair

Though we ought to be careful to bestow our benefits by preference upon those who are likely to show us gratitude for them, yet we must sometimes do what we have little hope will turn out well, and bestow benefits upon those who we not only think will prove ungrateful, but who we know have been so.

Seneca4–65 BC · philosopher · Ancient RomeSeneca was a Roman philosopher, playwright, and statesman who served as tutor and later chief advisor to the young Emperor Nero, guiding Roman policy for years.424 quotes

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More from Seneca

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More on kindness

Treat all men alike. Give them all the same law. Give them all an even chance to live and grow.

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Leo Tolstoy Among individuals, as among nations, respect for the rights of others is peace.

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William Shakespeare