Virtue can have naught to do with ease. . . . It craves a steep and thorny path.

“Virtue can have naught to do with ease. . . . It craves a steep and thorny path.” is a quote that speaks to the inherent challenges of pursuing moral excellence or virtue. The essence of this quote is that virtuousness isn’t something easily achieved or maintained; instead, it demands struggle, effort, and perseverance.

The “steep and thorny path” metaphorically represents the hardships one may encounter when seeking to live virtuously. Being virtuous often means making difficult choices, resisting temptations, and sometimes going against popular opinion or societal norms. Like climbing a steep hill filled with thorns, maintaining virtue requires continuous effort and can cause discomfort.

Applying this idea in today’s world might involve acknowledging that doing what’s right isn’t always easy or convenient. For instance, standing up against social injustices can result in backlash from those who benefit from maintaining the status quo; however, it is a virtuous act because it seeks fairness for all.

In personal development terms, this quote could be interpreted as an encouragement to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than seeing them as obstacles. Struggling through difficulties helps build resilience and character—key components of personal development.

Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of integrity—sticking to one’s moral principles even when no one else is watching—and having the courage to make tough decisions based on what we believe is right rather than what is easy or popularly accepted.

this quote serves as a reminder that virtues such as honesty, kindness, patience are not passive qualities but active pursuits that demand determination and bravery in face of adversity.