Here lies one who meant well, tried a little, failed much: — surely that may be his epitaph of which he need not be ashamed.
Meaning
Stevenson wrote this in his essay "A Christmas Sermon" while reflecting on how little any of us achieves. He argues that sincere effort matters more than flawless results. Try applying it by judging today by whether you honestly tried, then starting again tomorrow.
Source: Across the Plains, "A Christmas Sermon" (1892)
Best Motivation Quotes with Meaning
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About the author
Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) was a Scottish novelist, essayist and poet, best known for Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
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