The quote “It seems to never occur to fools that merit and good fortune are closely united” essentially means that those who are unwise or lack discernment fail to realize the correlation between hard work (merit) and success (good fortune). In simpler terms, it’s the concept that success doesn’t just happen by chance, but is the result of consistent effort and dedication.

In the context of personal development, this quote emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and resilience. It suggests that instead of waiting for good fortune to strike, one should focus on improving their skills, knowledge, and abilities. Merit, in this sense, can be viewed as the cumulative result of one’s efforts to learn, grow, and excel. The more merit one accrues, the higher the likelihood of attracting good fortune.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant. In an era where instant gratification is often sought, this quote serves as a reminder that real, lasting success typically requires time and hard work. For instance, in the professional realm, promotions and recognitions are usually the result of consistent performance and commitment. Similarly, in the world of sports, athletes reach their peak not by chance, but through years of training and preparation.

Moreover, the quote can also be interpreted as a critique of those who attribute their success solely to luck, thereby undermining their own efforts and abilities. It underscores the idea that while luck can play a part in success, it’s usually one’s merit that sets the stage for good fortune to occur.

In conclusion, the quote is a powerful reminder of the importance of personal growth, hard work, and resilience in achieving success. It encourages us to focus on building our merit, knowing that good fortune often follows suit.