This quote speaks to the idea that many people with good intentions often become entranced by the idea of doing good, to the point where it becomes a “sanguine mirage”. The term “sanguine” refers to a positive, hopeful, or optimistic outlook, while a “mirage” is an optical illusion that appears real but is not. In essence, Dickens is saying that the optimistic vision of doing good can sometimes be an illusion that good-hearted people chase, even though it may not be achievable or realistic.
This quote suggests that there is a gap between intention and action. While it’s admirable to have a strong desire to do good, it’s equally important to understand that good intentions don’t always translate into good actions or outcomes. Sometimes, our idealistic vision of doing good can blind us to the reality of the situation, leading us to make decisions that may not actually be beneficial in the long run.
In the context of today’s world, this quote can be applied to a number of scenarios. For example, in the realm of social activism, individuals may be driven by a passionate desire to effect change and do good, but if they’re not careful, they can become lost in the mirage of their sanguine vision. This could lead to actions that are ineffective, misguided, or even harmful.
In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to stay grounded and realistic in our ambitions. While it’s important to strive for improvement and to do good, we also need to be mindful of our limitations and the practicalities of our situation. We must balance our optimism with a dose of realism, and ensure that our actions align with our intentions.