Saying: True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost
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- Title: True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost
- Type: Sayings
- Category: { Friendship }
- Print: Download as PDF for printing
The saying True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost. originates from the British writer and aphorist Charles Caleb Colton. In this quotation, Colton emphasizes the great importance of friendship and health, both of which are often only truly appreciated once lost. This insight addresses a universal human need for stability and social connection, which explains the enduring relevance of the saying across generations.
Origin and Usage of the Saying
The aphorism was first published around 1820 in English. The exact original text reads: True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost. It was authored by the British cleric and writer Charles Caleb Colton (1780–1832). Colton included this and many other succinct sayings in his notable work "Lacon: Or, Many Things in Few Words". Since then, the saying has frequently appeared in renowned quotation anthologies, speeches, and has been used extensively in journalistic and literary contexts.
Meaning and Interpretation of the Saying
The saying highlights the often overlooked appreciation of essential aspects of life such as friendship and health. Both elements are examples of things whose true value is not always immediately evident but becomes particularly noticeable when they are missing.
Colton's aphorism underscores the parallel between interpersonal relationships and physical well-being. He illustrates that friendships, much like health, should never be taken for granted but rather nurtured and attended to.
The interpretation also points to a universal human tendency: Appreciation for significant aspects of life often occurs only in hindsight. Indirectly, this conveys a suggestion to be more mindful about one's resources and relationships.
Additionally, the aphorism provides a philosophical reflection on loss and recognition. Human nature frequently recognizes the significance of something only through painful experiences. This realization process is exemplified here through the themes of friendship and health.
Colton's formulation is timeless because it is not bound to a specific era or cultural tradition. Its universal applicability makes it suitable for various contexts, from social debates and ethical discourses to personal reflection.