Much better
would it be simply to state my case and leave it. To do more is not
only to distrust it, but to distrust that in my friend which is my best
ally, and will more surely assist me than all my vehemence. Sometimes--
nay, often--it is better to say nothing, for there is a constant
tendency in Nature towards rectification, and her quiet protest and
persuasiveness are hindered by personal interference. If anybody very
dear to me were to fall into any heresy of belief or of conduct, I am
not sure that I ought to rebuke him, and that he would not sooner be
converted by observing my silent respect for him than by preaching to
him.
TALKING ABOUT OUR TROUBLES
We may talk about our troubles to those persons who can give us direct
help, but even in this case we ought as much as possible to come to a
provisional conclusion before consultation; to be perfectly clear to
ourselves within our own limits. Some people have a foolish trick of
applying for aid before they have done anything whatever to aid
themselves, and in fact try to talk themselves into perspicuity.
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