The wise man, the true friend, the finished character, we seek everywhere, and only find in fragments

The wise man, the true friend, the finished character, we seek everywhere, and only find in fragments

Ralph Waldo Emerson, a renowned American essayist, poet, and philosopher, often explored the themes of wisdom, friendship, and character in his works. In his essay "Friendship," Emerson delves into the idea that the wise man, the true friend, and the finished character are elusive ideals that we seek everywhere but only find in fragments.

Emerson believed that true wisdom is a rare and precious quality that few possess. He argued that wisdom is not something that can be acquired through education or experience alone, but rather it is a deep understanding of the world and oneself that comes from within. The wise man, according to Emerson, is someone who has cultivated their intellect, intuition, and moral compass to a high degree. They are able to see beyond the surface of things and grasp the deeper truths of existence.

Similarly, Emerson believed that true friendship is a rare and valuable bond that requires mutual respect, trust, and understanding. He argued that a true friend is someone who accepts you for who you are, flaws and all, and supports you in your journey towards self-improvement. A true friend, in Emerson's view, is someone who challenges you to be your best self and helps you grow as a person.

Emerson believed that the finished character is the culmination of a lifetime of self-discovery and self-improvement. He argued that character is not something that is fixed or static, but rather it is something that is constantly evolving and developing. The finished character, according to Emerson, is someone who has achieved a harmonious balance between their intellect, emotions, and moral values.