There is indeed a certain sense of gratification when we do a good deed that gives us inward satisfaction, and a generous pride that accompanies a good conscience… These testimonies of a good conscience are pleasant; and such a natural pleasure is very beneficial to us; it is the only payment that can never fail. “On Repentance Michel De Montaigne
About This Quote

We all have a good conscience, but that doesn't mean that we feel good about ourselves. One of the main reasons people want to be better is to feel good about themselves. People want to feel good about themselves because it gives them a sense of community and belonging. It is another way of saying that people want to feel included and valued.

Some people feel guilty every day because they don't feel as though they are living up to their own standards of goodness. They want to feel as though they are doing something right, which makes them feel as though they belong in the world.

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More Quotes By Michel De Montaigne
  1. Until we get equality in education, we won't have an equal society.
  2. Dressing badly has been a refuge much of my life, a way of compelling others to engage with my mind, not my physical presence. Page. 283
  3. I have come to believe that in order to thrive, a child must have at least one adult in her life who shows her unconditional love, respect, and confidence.
  4. [T]he more critical lesson I learned that day is still one too many kids never figure out: don't be shy about making a teacher of any willing party who knows what he or she is doing.
  5. I couldn’t even tell if I had any sadness of my own, because I was so full of Abuelita’s sadness.
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