'You can accomplish by kindness what you cannot by force' - Publilius Syrus

In a world where aggression and force seem to be the go-to techniques for getting what we want, the quote by Publilius Syrus, “You can accomplish by kindness what you cannot by force,” stands out as a reminder that sometimes the gentle approach can yield tremendous results.

Syrus, a Syrian-born writer and philosopher who lived during the first century BC, understood the power of empathy and connection in achieving success. His famous quote speaks to the fact that brute force may get someone what they want in the short term, but it rarely leads to long-term sustainable success. On the other hand, kindness and empathy may take longer to yield results, but when they do, they create a solid foundation for a lasting and fulfilling relationship.

Whether in the workplace, in politics, or in personal relationships, the use of force and aggression tends to alienate and create resentment. When people are feeling threatened, they become defensive and less cooperative, which can make it difficult to achieve any sort of collective goal. In contrast, when individuals approach others with empathy and kindness, they are more likely to be met with trust, cooperation, and a willingness to work together. This can facilitate collaboration, problem-solving, and the creation of mutually beneficial outcomes.

One of the reasons why kindness works so well is that it helps to build trust. When people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to trust the person they are working with. This trust can lead to open communication, a willingness to take risks, and a greater sense of vulnerability that can help transform relationships.

In addition to building trust, kindness also helps to create a sense of community. When individuals feel connected to one another, they are more likely to care about one another’s well-being and work towards shared goals. This can lead to a sense of belonging and purpose that can be incredibly motivating and energizing.

Finally, kindness is contagious. When one person treats someone with kindness, it sets off a ripple effect that can spread throughout an entire community. This can lead to a virtuous cycle of positive behaviors and outcomes that can transform both individuals and organizations.

In conclusion, the quote by Publilius Syrus, “You can accomplish by kindness what you cannot by force,” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, connection, and community in achieving long-term success. While the use of force may achieve temporary objectives, the power of kindness lies in its ability to build trust, create community, and inspire lasting change.

Who is “Publilius Syrus”?

Publilius Syrus was a Latin writer, born in Syria during the first century BC. He was known for his collection of aphorisms and mimes, which were performed in Roman theaters. His works were highly regarded in the Renaissance and have continued to be studied and appreciated by scholars and readers around the world. Some of his famous sayings include “A rolling stone gathers no moss” and “Things are not always as they seem.”

Are there any books about “Publilius Syrus”?

Yes, there are several books about Publilius Syrus, a Latin writer and performer from the 1st century BC.

1. “The Moral Sayings of Publius Syrus” edited by D. Lyman. This book includes a collection of Proverbs and sayings by Publilius Syrus in its original Latin language along with English translations.

2. “The Sententiae of Publius Syrus” edited by William Meyer. This book contains an extensive commentary on the work of Publilius Syrus and its influence on the culture and literature of the ancient world.

3. “Publilius Syrus: A Latin Collection of Proverbs and Maxims” edited by Michael McCullough. This book provides a selection of Publilius Syrus’s moral sayings, which are presented in their Latin form with English translations.

4. “Selected Moral Sayings of Publius Syrus” edited by H.W. Auden. This book includes translations of some of Publilius Syrus’s most famous sayings and aphorisms along with commentary on their historical and cultural significance.

5. “Publilius Syrus: Maxim and Sentences” edited by D.R. Shackleton Bailey. This book features an introduction to the life and work of Publilius Syrus along with a selection of his moral sayings in Latin and English translations.

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