“The only way to have a friend is to be one.”
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.
“Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“It was for beauty that the world was made.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The reward of a thing well done, is to have done it.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“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 sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →
“A friend is a person with whom I may be sincere.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The most effective way to do it is to do it.”
— Amelia Earhart Disputed“It is easier to forgive an Enemy than to forgive a Friend.”
— William Blake Primary source“You may be too cunning for one, but not for all.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source