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"در این دنیا همسفران گناهی که بهایش را می پردازد می تواند آزادانه و بدون گذرنامه سفر کند در حالی که فضیلت اگر فقیر باشد در همه مرزها متوقف می شود"

Herman Melville
Herman Melville Novelist
Translations
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Quote meaning
This quote captures a rather cynical but often true observation about the world we live in. It points out that actions or behaviors deemed 'sinful'—those that might be morally questionable or outright unethical—can often advance smoothly if they come with monetary benefits. On the other hand, virtuous behavior, especially when it lacks financial backing, tends to face obstacles and restrictions.

Historically, this sentiment has been echoed throughout literature and everyday life. Think back to classic novels or even modern news stories. There’s always that rich villain or corrupt politician who seems to glide through life unimpeded, greasing palms and bending rules. Meanwhile, the righteous hero, often poor or humble, struggles at every turn, fighting against institutional and societal barriers. This quote exemplifies the harsh reality that sometimes wealth and power overshadow ethics and virtue, allowing individuals to circumvent struggles that would otherwise be unavoidable.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a business scenario: A wealthy corporation wants to build a new factory. They might engage in some shady negotiations or offer bribes to local officials to bypass environmental regulations. Because they have the money, they can 'pay their way' and get approvals without much hassle. Contrast this with a small, community-driven organization that wants to set up a sustainable farming project. They have good intentions and solid plans, but lack funds. This group might face bureaucratic red tape, stringent regulations, and countless delays because they can't afford to 'grease the wheels'.

So, what can we learn from this and how do we apply this wisdom? First, it's crucial to recognize the reality of the situation. Understand that while money can pave easier paths, integrity and virtue have their own intrinsic value. You shouldn't compromise your morals for the sake of convenience. However, being aware of the struggles virtuous actions might face can help you prepare better. If you're setting out on a noble cause, plan strategically. Build alliances, gather support, and make your efforts known. These steps won’t always eliminate obstacles, but they can help mitigate them.

Imagine this scenario: You’re passionate about launching a nonprofit to help underprivileged kids. You've got the drive, the vision, but not much money. You might find that fundraising events, social media campaigns, and community outreach are necessary tools. You’ll face hurdles—permits denied, skeptical donors, slow progress. But every step forward, every small victory, builds momentum. Over time, your cause gains attention and support, proving that virtue, though often halted, can find a path through persistence and community backing.

Conversely, think about the wealthy investor who decides to open a high-end club in a neighborhood. They might cut corners, bypassing local zoning laws through hefty donations to key decision-makers. Their project sails through approvals, seemingly untouchable. But here’s the kicker—such actions often have a way of catching up. People notice, reputations tarnish, and long-term sustainability falters.

In essence, while 'sin' seems to travel without barriers and virtue often faces them, it’s the latter that builds a solid foundation of respect and trust. We live in a world where money can buy shortcuts, but integrity wins loyalty. Embrace your values, prepare for challenges, and build a network of support. It’s not the fastest route, but it’s the one that truly lasts.
Related tags
Discrimination Ethics Human nature Injustice Morality Philosophy Sin Societal norms Virtue Wealth disparity
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