“A friend is a person with whom I may be sincere.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Friendship (Primary source)
Emerson’s Friendship, a seminal text on the topic, explores true companionship as a sacred bond rooted in mutual respect, integrity, and spiritual growth. It argues genuine friendship requires self-reliance and honesty, elevating individuals to their highest selves.
“The true test of civilization is, not the census, nor the size of cities, nor the crops—no, but the kind of man the country turns out.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The years teach much which the days never know.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“In skating over thin ice, our safety is in our speed.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →
“It is easier to forgive an Enemy than to forgive a Friend.”
— William Blake Primary source“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Disputed“He that can have patience can have what he will.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“I don’t want to be your friend, baby. I am your friend.”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary source