He that hopes no good fears no ill.
Meaning
A person without expectations avoids both hope and fear, but also misses meaningful experience.
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About the author
(1608–1661) was an English historian, preacher, and writer known for his wit and aphorisms. His work "Gnomologia" is a collection of proverbs and sayings that reflect practical wisdom and humor. Fuller’s writing covers history, religion, and moral observations. He was respected for his intelligence and storytelling ability. Thomas Fuller’s legacy continues to influence literature and collections of traditional wisdom.
Why This Quote Matters
This is one of the sharper things Thomas Fuller has said about Hope. It refuses fluff—A person without expectations avoids both hope and fear, but also misses meaningful experience.
The benefit shows up gradually, in fewer regrets rather than sudden wins. It’s a reminder worth keeping close, not memorizing.
How to Apply This Quote in Life
Trade a passive habit for one active step tied to Hope this week. If the habit breaks, the fix is usually smaller than it feels.
If it feels abstract, pick a single scenario this week and run it end-to-end. Simple wins here more often than clever.
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