proverb · Words worth keeping
Make much of one, good men are scarce.
Make much of one, good men are scarce.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Value a trustworthy person rather than taking their presence for granted. The claim of scarcity intensifies the invitation to appreciate good conduct.
Example
A group thanks a dependable volunteer and makes sure the work does not fall on that person alone.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The saying urges attention to one good person because it imagines such people as uncommon. It can encourage gratitude, care and recognition when someone behaves reliably or generously. The sweeping judgment about everyone else need not be accepted. Nor should appreciation become dependence on an idealised figure who is never allowed to make mistakes. A useful reading values actual conduct and a reciprocal relationship rather than declaring a person perfect.
When to use it
Use it to appreciate someone’s reliable contribution without taking it for granted.
Keep in mind
Goodness is not confined to a rare few, and appreciation should not create unreasonable demands.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English