“Moderation is a virtue only in those who are thought to have an alternative.”
— Henry Kissinger
Simplified Meaning:
People value moderation, or being balanced and not extreme, more in someone who could choose to be different. Imagine a famous chef who could make really fancy meals every day but instead chooses to cook simple, healthy dishes. People admire the chef's choice for moderation because they know the chef could be making more complex meals. The choice shows the chef's wisdom and self-control. This idea means that having the ability to choose extremes and still picking a moderate path shows true strength and wisdom. To apply this to your life, think about making balanced choices when you have the option to go to an extreme—whether it's in spending money, eating, working, or having fun. This balance shows you are thoughtful and can control your desires.
