This quote is a profound commentary on power and personal growth. It suggests that when a person is given a position of power or responsibility (an “office”), their reaction to this new role can reveal much about their character. If they “swell,” it implies they become arrogant, conceited, or complacent, letting the power get to their head. On the other hand, if they “grow,” it signifies they use the opportunity to learn, develop, and improve, leveraging the authority to make positive changes.

In today’s world, this concept is still very relevant. We often see people in positions of power, whether in politics, business, or other fields, who either let their status inflate their ego or use it as a platform for growth and positive impact. For instance, some managers may become authoritarian and unapproachable after a promotion, while others may use their new role to foster a positive work environment and drive their team towards success.

In terms of personal development, this quote suggests that how we handle power and responsibility can be a significant determinant of our growth. If we let our achievements inflate our ego, we risk becoming complacent and stagnating. However, if we see each new responsibility as an opportunity to learn and improve, we can continuously grow and develop, both personally and professionally.

Therefore, this quote encourages us to strive for growth rather than swelling when we attain new roles or responsibilities, reminding us that true success lies in our ability to leverage our achievements for continuous learning and improvement.