Living up to ideals is like doing everyday work with your Sunday clothes on

Living up to ideals is like doing everyday work with your Sunday clothes on

E.W. Howe, an American novelist and newspaper editor, once said, “Living up to ideals is like doing everyday work with your Sunday clothes on.” This quote encapsulates the idea that striving to meet high standards and uphold moral principles can be challenging and require constant effort and attention.

In the context of E.W. Howe’s life and work, this quote can be interpreted as a reflection of his own commitment to integrity and honesty in his writing and journalism. Howe was known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on social and political issues, and he often used his platform to advocate for justice and equality. By holding himself to a high standard of ethical conduct and refusing to compromise his principles, Howe was able to make a lasting impact on the world around him.

For Howe, living up to his ideals meant more than just paying lip service to lofty values – it meant embodying those values in his everyday actions and interactions. Just as wearing Sunday clothes requires extra care and attention to detail, so too does living a life of integrity and moral courage. It means being willing to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular, and to hold oneself accountable for one’s words and deeds.

In a world where moral ambiguity and ethical compromise are all too common, E.W. Howe’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s principles and values. They remind us that living up to our ideals is not always easy, but it is always worth the effort. Just as Sunday clothes are a symbol of respect and reverence, so too is a life lived with integrity and honor a testament to the power of moral courage and ethical clarity.