Beware of Pity

by Stefan Zweig

it is not evil and brutality, but nearly always weakness, that is to blame for the worst things that happen in this world.

In all our actions vanity is, after all, one of the most powerful driving forces, and weak natures in particular succumb to the temptation to do something which, viewed superficially, makes them appear strong, courageous and resolute.

I must put a stop to all this business of eternally considering other people.