Doris Lessing: 'Trust no friend without faults, and love a woman, but no angel.'

Trust no friend without faults, and love a woman, but no angel.

Doris Lessing's wise words, "Trust no friend without faults, and love a woman, but no angel," encapsulate a profound understanding of human relationships. The quote reminds us that imperfections are an integral part of being human, and that genuine trust and love often come from seeing and accepting someone's faults. It emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and understanding in any relationship, as perfection is not attainable or sustainable. By acknowledging and embracing flaws, a deeper and more authentic connection can be cultivated between individuals. Moreover, the notion of loving a woman but not an angel suggests that idealizing someone or placing them on a pedestal can lead to disappointment and failure in relationships. It encourages viewing individuals as complex beings with strengths and weaknesses, rather than flawless and unattainable entities.To delve deeper into the quote's significance, let's introduce the philosophical concept of Existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophical movement that explores themes of individuality, freedom, responsibility, and the nature of existence. In the context of Lessing's quote, Existentialism can shed light on the idea of embracing imperfections in relationships. Existentialists believe that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning in life and that authentic relationships are based on honesty, acceptance, and facing one's own fears and vulnerabilities. By recognizing and accepting the faults of friends and loved ones, we are engaging in an existential act of authenticity and accepting the full spectrum of human experience.In contrast to more traditional views that may advocate for perfection or idealization in relationships, Existentialism encourages a more nuanced and realistic approach. It challenges individuals to confront the inherent imperfections of human nature and to embrace the complexities of relationships with all their flaws and beauty. In doing so, we move beyond superficial expectations and delve into the depths of true connection and understanding.In conclusion, Doris Lessing's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing imperfections in relationships and rejecting idealized notions of perfection. By incorporating Existentialist principles of authenticity and embracing the complexities of human nature, we can cultivate deeper and more meaningful connections with others. Trusting friends with faults and loving individuals as they are - flawed yet unique - allows for genuine bonds to form and for the beauty of imperfection to shine through.