This quote essentially suggests that we are all born with certain inherent traits, and while some of these traits may evolve or diminish over time, others persist. The three qualities mentioned here – bravery,trust,and greed – are seen as fundamental aspects of human nature.
The first part of the quote implies that as infants or young children, we naturally exhibit bravery and trust.We’re brave as we constantly explore our surroundings without fear; everything is new and unknown yet it doesn’t deter us from discovering. Trust is also an innate quality because as babies, we implicitly trust those around us to care for us.
However,the second part of the quote indicates a shift in these qualities as we grow older. Bravery may fade away due to life experiences that teach caution or induce fear. Trust can be eroded by betrayals or disappointments.
Yet greed tends to persist according to McLaughlin’s observation. Humans have a natural tendency towards wanting more – more food,more resources,more attention etc., which originates from survival instincts but often continues beyond necessity into desire for excess.
In today’s world this idea can be applied in various ways including understanding consumer behavior in marketing where companies capitalize on people’s ‘greed’ for their products; in wealth distribution debates where unchecked greed leads to socio-economic disparities; even in environmental concerns where overconsumption (a form of greed) contributes significantly to issues like climate change.
From a personal development outlook this could serve as an introspective reminder about our inherent qualities. It encourages mindfulness about retaining positive traits like bravery and trust despite negative experiences while keeping potentially harmful tendencies like excessive greed under control for balanced personal growth.
