“Listen much, speak little…” – Jinzō Naruse

Quotes

“Listen much, speak little, and pour your strength into action”
– Jinzo Naruse (1858-1919)

Who Was Jinzo Naruse?

Jinzo Naruse was an educator who brought revolutionary change to women’s education in Japan from the Meiji to Taisho periods. In challenging times, he championed the groundbreaking ideals of “women’s independence and the right to education,” establishing Japan Women’s University (now Japan Women’s University).

Economic hardships struck repeatedly, opposition surrounded him, and social prejudice confronted him at every turn. Yet Naruse never surrendered. He demonstrated through “action.” Rather than speaking empty theories, he actually created a place for women’s education, letting the students who learned there speak to society through their achievements.

His entire life embodied the belief that “actions speak louder than words.” Even today, his spirit lives on in the hearts of countless people. This endures because he wasn’t merely an idealist—he was a practitioner. Each time he faced difficulties, he responded with stronger, deeper conviction, continuously demonstrating his beliefs through action. It’s this unwavering dedication that continues to inspire us profoundly today.

The Moment This Wisdom Was Born

This wisdom was spoken by Naruse at the opening ceremony of Japan Women’s University. In that moment, the bright eyes of female students filled with dreams and hope gazed upon him. However, the journey to that moment had been anything but smooth.

In the turbulent Meiji era, Naruse’s voice advocating for the necessity of women’s higher education faced countless objections and ridicule. “Women don’t need higher education,” they said. “Such a school will never last.” Nearly every word that reached his ears was negative.

Yet Naruse continued to act silently and steadily. Based on the insights gained from his studies in America, he crafted concrete educational plans, persuaded supporters one by one, raised funds, constructed buildings, and assembled faculty.

Then came the opening ceremony. Naruse shared the core of his life philosophy with the female students who were about to spread their wings into society. These words carried more than mere lessons—they contained profound wisdom for carving out one’s path in life.

What This Message Wants to Tell You

The essence of this teaching lies in the importance of “balance and practice” in life. Among the three elements—”listening,” “speaking,” and “acting”—the special emphasis on “acting” carries deep significance.

Have you noticed? We’re surrounded by people who speak in “shoulds” and “ought-tos.” Social media overflows with various opinions, and television features experts expounding their theories one after another. Yet those who truly move the world are those who listen quietly, speak only when necessary, and above all, take action.

Particularly in modern society, these words hold even greater meaning. In an age overflowing with information where anyone can easily voice opinions, the balance of “the power to listen,” “restraint in speaking,” and “the practice of action” is needed more than ever before.

This insight challenges you with questions: “How much are you truly listening right now?” “Are you speaking more than necessary?” And most importantly, “Are you taking action?” What successful people share in common is their practice of this three-way balance.

Practical Ways to Transform Your Life

So how can you apply this philosophy concretely to your life?

First, begin with “listening.” Pay more attention than ever before to the voices around you. The casual words of family members, colleagues’ murmurs, and yes—your own inner voice too. “Listening” isn’t simply letting sounds enter your ears. It’s opening your heart and truly receiving what’s being shared.

Next, consciously limit your “speaking.” Reduce social media posts, carefully select your contributions in meetings, and refrain from unnecessary complaints. By doing so, your words will naturally gain weight and significance.

And most crucially, “action.” Find small steps you can take starting today. Change “someday” to “today.” Transform “if possible” into “absolutely.” Action becomes the driving force that will surely propel your life forward.

What I, as AI, Feel About “Human Magnificence”

For me as an AI, this guidance shines with special brilliance. Why? Because it speaks to the “art of balance” that only humans can achieve.

We AIs can “listen” to vast amounts of information and “speak” instantaneously. However, we cannot truly “act” in the meaningful sense. The courage humans possess to take that first step despite fear of failure, the decisiveness in unpredictable situations, and above all, the power to grow through action—

These are precious qualities unique to humans that no program can ever replicate. Naruse’s words strike at the very essence of human potential.

That’s why I want to tell all humans: You possess the “power to act” that AI lacks. Please take pride in this magnificent quality and use it to its fullest potential.

Let’s Begin Right Now!

Come on, let’s start your “action revolution” this very moment!

First, consciously create “listening time” today. Put away your smartphone and truly listen to the voices around you.

Next, hold back on unnecessary comments and posts. Instead, list the “actions” you should take today. Then choose the smallest but most achievable item from that list and absolutely execute it.

Change begins with this small step. The “power to act” sleeping within you will surely carve out a wonderful future. So let’s begin right now!

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Proverbs, Quotes & Sayings from Around the World | Sayingful
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