“But I do not do these things because we are family. I do them because they are common decencies. That is an idiom that the hero taught me. I do them because I am not a big fucking asshole. That is another idiom that the hero taught me.”
Analyzing the Quote by Jonathan Safran Foer
In this quote, Jonathan Safran Foer highlights the importance of basic human decency and kindness, regardless of familial relationships. He emphasizes that doing things for others should not be based solely on family ties, but rather on a fundamental sense of morality and respect for others. The use of idioms here suggests that these values were instilled in him by a mentor or role model, referred to as "the hero." Foer's words serve as a reminder that being a good person is not contingent on blood relations, but on a conscious choice to treat others with kindness and compassion.
Modern Relevance of Common Decencies
In this quote by Jonathan Safran Foer, the protagonist emphasizes the importance of common decency over family obligations. This sentiment remains relevant today in a world where basic human decency can sometimes be overshadowed by personal interests or biases. It serves as a reminder to prioritize kindness and consideration for others, regardless of their relationship to us.
Jonathan Safran Foer Quote
"But I do not do these things because we are family. I do them because they are common decencies. That is an idiom that the hero taught me. I do them because I am not a big fucking asshole. That is another idiom that the hero taught me."
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on this quote from Jonathan Safran Foer, consider the following questions:
- How do you define common decencies in your own life?
- What values or principles guide your actions towards others, regardless of familial relationships?
- How do you navigate the balance between kindness and assertiveness in your interactions with others?
- In what ways do you uphold your personal values in challenging or conflicted situations?
- How has someone in your life influenced your perspective on decency and integrity?
Similar quotes
“Mother is a humble woman. Very, very humble. She toils at a small café one hour distance from our home. She presents food and drink to customers there, and says to me, "I mount the autobus for an hour to work all day doing things I hate. You want to know why? It is for you, Alexi-stop-spleening-me! One day you will do things for me that you hate. That is what it means to be a family." What she does not clutch is that I already do things for her that I hate. I listen to her when she talks to me. I resist complaining about my pygmy allowance. And did I mention that I do not spleen her nearly so much as I desire to? But I do not do these things because we are a family. I do them because they are common decencies. That is an idiom that the hero taught me. I do them because I am not a big fucking asshole. That is another idiom that the hero taught me.”
“Everything I did, I did because I thought it was the correct thing to do… I am not a hero, it is true… But I am not a bad person, either.”
“She asked me what made me do such a thing. That is an awkward question because I often can't tell what makes me do things. Sometimes I do them just to find out what I feel like doing them. And sometimes I do them because I want to have some exciting things to tell my grandchildren.”
“I want to just be lazy and I want some of the people around me to be doing things, because that makes me feel comfortable and safe - and I want some of them to be doing nothing at all, because they can be graceful and companionable for me.”
“Because I do not know the names of things, I do not express them. ”