This quote is a profound reflection on personal responsibility and morality. The first half, “Wouldst thou shut up the avenues of ill,” suggests that if one wants to prevent negative consequences or ‘ills’, they must take proactive steps. It’s about guarding oneself against potential harm by making wise decisions.
The second part,”pay every debt as if God wrote the bill,” emphasizes the importance of fulfilling obligations with utmost sincerity and honesty,as if each debt were mandated by a divine power. This doesn’t just refer to financial debts but also moral and ethical ones – promises made, responsibilities taken on, etc.
In essence, this quote is advocating for integrity in all aspects of life – from managing finances to dealing with people. It suggests that living responsibly and ethically can help us avoid manny problems (‘ills’) in life.
In today’s world where trust deficits are common in various spheres – from politics to business – this idea holds great relevance. If we approach our commitments with sincerity as though they were sacred duties (like ‘god wrote the bill’), it would not only enhance our credibility but also contribute towards building healthier relationships and societies.
On a personal development level, adopting such an attitude can lead to self-discipline and accountability – key traits for success in any field. By treating every commitment seriously (paying every debt), we learn to prioritize tasks effectively, manage time better and ultimately become more reliable individuals.Moreover, understanding that our actions have consequences (‘shutting up avenues of ill’) encourages mindful decision-making which can lead us towards more fulfilling lives free from unneeded troubles caused by negligence or dishonesty.
