Character is like a tree, and reputation is its shadow. We take care of the shadow, but we should really care for the tree.
Character is like a tree, and reputation is its shadow. We take care of the shadow, but we should really care for the tree.
This quote suggests that a person's true character is fundamental and enduring, much like a tree, which represents the core qualities and values that define who they are. In contrast, reputation is likened to a shadow—fleeting and dependent on how others perceive us. While people often focus on maintaining a good reputation, represented by the shadow, the quote emphasizes that it is more important to nurture and develop one's character, the tree itself. This highlights the idea that genuine integrity and moral strength are what truly matter in the long run, rather than the temporary opinions or judgments of others.
Quote By: David J. Schwartz