“Do good, and disappear.” – Genevieve Hennet De Goutel (1886-1917)
The simple, yet beautiful, words above are from Genevieve Hennet De Goutel’s diary. Genevieve was a heroic French nurse who served on several battlefields. She died in World War I. I’ve made a note to try to learn more about this remarkable woman. As it is, I have little more than the quote above.
But what a quote!
The quote needs no explaining or expounding from me. The meaning is obvious: When you do something helpful or kind for someone, you need not stand around waiting for a pat on the back. You shouldn’t worry if anyone saw your good deed or heard your kind words, and you most certainly shouldn’t try to draw attention to yourself
You simply give, say, or do – and disappear.