Beauty, talent, intelligence, all of these fade, except for wisdom and virtue.
Beauty, talent, intelligence, all of these fade, except for wisdom and virtue.
This quote suggests that while qualities like beauty, talent, and intelligence may be fleeting and can diminish over time, wisdom and virtue hold enduring value. Beauty and talent are often judged and can change with age or circumstances, while intelligence may become less relevant in the face of experience or changing societal values. In contrast, wisdom—gained through life experiences—and virtue—representing moral excellence—are qualities that deepen and mature over time. Ultimately, the quote emphasizes the importance of cultivating wisdom and virtue as they contribute to a person's true character and lasting legacy.