This quote signifies the importance of self-acceptance and inner peace. To be good, or to feel good about oneself, requires an inner harmony, a congruence between one’s actions, beliefs, and values. It implies that our truest form of goodness stems from being authentic and true to ourselves, rather than conforming to external expectations or societal norms.

The second part of the quote, “Discord is to be forced to be in harmony with others,” suggests that conflict and dissatisfaction often arise when we are compelled to align our actions, beliefs, and values with those of others, compromising our authenticity in the process. This is not to say that we should disregard the views of others, but rather that we should not lose our individuality and self-respect in the pursuit of acceptance and approval.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant. With the rise of social media and the constant bombardment of images and messages about how we should look, act, and think, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others and feeling pressured to conform. This can lead to a sense of discord or dissatisfaction, as we struggle to reconcile our true selves with the image we feel we need to project to the world.

In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to prioritize self-awareness and authenticity. It encourages us to cultivate a strong sense of self, grounded in our own values and beliefs, and to strive for harmony within ourselves rather than seeking external validation. This can lead to increased self-confidence, resilience, and overall well-being.

However, it’s also important to balance this with empathy and understanding for others. Being true to ourselves doesn’t mean disregarding the feelings or perspectives of others. We can maintain our authenticity while also respecting and valuing the diversity of others. In this way, we can achieve harmony both within ourselves and in our relationships with others.