This quote implies that the greatest compliment or praise one can receive for their virtues and good deeds comes from those who serve them. The reason behind this is that servants, or in a broader sense, people who work under someone, are often privy to their true character. They see the person’s actions when no one else is watching and thus have a clear understanding of their actual virtues.
The praise from these individuals holds more weight because it’s based on consistent observation of behavior rather than public perception or occasional interaction. It also indicates that the person being praised treats everyone well, not just those they need to impress or those on an equal or higher social standing.
Applying this idea in today’s world could involve considering how we treat people who are in positions of service – whether they are waitstaff at restaurants, cleaners at our workplaces, customer service representatives and so on. It encourages us to treat everyone with kindness and respect regardless of their position.
In terms of personal development, it highlights the importance of authenticity – being virtuous not just for show but as an integral part of our character that remains consistent irrespective of audience. It prompts us to strive for genuine goodness which will be recognized by all who interact with us closely.
Furthermore, it suggests a re-evaluation of whose opinions we value most; instead of seeking approval from high-status individuals or large numbers (such as social media followers), perhaps we should value more highly the opinions and feedback from those who truly know us best – including those ‘below’ us in social hierarchy.
Ultimately, this quote underscores an egalitarian ethos: every individual’s opinion matters irrespective of status differences; virtue is about consistency across contexts; and respect should be universal rather than selective based on status distinctions.
