This quote suggests that every individual inherently possesses goodness, but the challenge lies in understanding how to express and manifest this goodness in our actions and decisions. It implies that the potential for good exists within us all, but it is often obscured or complicated by various factors such as our personal experiences, societal norms, or even the lack of moral guidance.

The quote also acknowledges the complexity of morality. Doing good is not always straightforward or easy to define. It requires introspection, empathy, and the ability to navigate moral dilemmas. The ‘hard to understand how to do good’ part of the quote could refer to the moral ambiguity that often comes with life’s challenges. It could also imply that sometimes, even with the best intentions, we may end up causing harm or misunderstanding, because our perception of ‘good’ might not align with others’.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see that despite the global challenges we face, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, there are countless individuals and organizations striving to do good. However, these efforts often involve complex decisions and trade-offs. For example, a company might want to reduce its carbon footprint, but doing so could involve job losses. This quote encourages us to grapple with these complexities and strive to do good in spite of them.

In terms of personal development, this quote can inspire us to continuously seek moral growth. It encourages us to believe in our inherent goodness and to persist in our efforts to do good, even when it’s difficult or when we make mistakes. It also reminds us to be patient and understanding with others, recognizing that they too are grappling with how to do good. This can foster empathy, resilience, and moral courage, which are key qualities for personal and social progress.