paradox quotes from influential philosophers, authors and people
"We give up leisure in order that we may have leisure, just as we go to war in order that we may have peace."
574
"But only he who, himself enlightened, is not afraid of shadows."
980
"The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless."
998
"I would rather be a man of paradoxes than a man of prejudices."
999
"There are times when I am so unlike myself that I might be taken for someone else of an entirely opposite character."
1014
"Truth is mysterious, elusive, always to be conquered. Liberty is dangerous, as hard to live with as it is elating. We must march toward these two goals, painfully but resolutely, certain in advance of our failings on so long a road."
1051
"Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom."
1057
"People understand me so poorly that they don't even understand my complaint about them not understanding me."
1059
"I see it all perfectly; there are two possible situations — one can either do this or that. My honest opinion and my friendly advice is this: do it or do not do it — you will regret both."
1064
"In addition to my other numerous acquaintances, I have one more intimate confidant… My depression is the most faithful mistress I have known — no wonder, then, that I return the love."
1067
"What if everything in the world were a misunderstanding, what if laughter were really tears?"
1070
"If anyone on the verge of action should judge himself according to the outcome, he would never begin."
1074
"Because here’s the thing that’s wrong with all of the 'How to Be Happy' shit that’s been shared eight million times on Facebook in the past few years—here’s what nobody realizes about all of this crap: The desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience. And, paradoxically, the acceptance of one’s negative experience is itself a positive experience."
1167
"The paradox seems to be, as Socrates demonstrated long ago, that the truly free individual is free only to the extent of his own self-mastery. While those who will not govern themselves are condemned to find masters to govern over them."
323
"The desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience. And, paradoxically, the acceptance of one’s negative experience is itself a positive experience."
1154
"Being open with your insecurities paradoxically makes you more confident and charismatic around others. The pain of honest confrontation is what generates the greatest trust and respect in your relationships. Suffering through your fears and anxieties is what allows you to build courage and perseverance."
1165