“Almost every wise saying has an opposite one, no less wise, to balance it.”
— George Santayana
Simplified Meaning:
Sometimes, two pieces of advice can seem to clash, but both can still offer valuable insights. Think of the saying, "Look before you leap," which tells us to be careful and think things through. On the other hand, there's "He who hesitates is lost," suggesting that acting quickly can be the best option. Both sayings are wise in their own ways and can apply in different situations. For example, if you're buying a house, you should probably "look before you leap" and carefully consider all your options. But if you are at a job interview and they ask you a tough question, "he who hesitates is lost" might remind you to answer confidently and quickly. By understanding both points of view, you can make better choices because you're prepared for different types of situations. So, having opposite pieces of advice helps you find balance in decision-making.