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People don’t extinguish the lamps of others; it’s the absence of oil that causes their lights to fade. Just as it’s not someone else intentionally dimming another’s flame, but rather the insufficiency of fuel that dims it. This notion extends beyond literal lamps to symbolize various situations in life.
For instance, in a competitive environment, one’s failure or setback isn’t typically caused by others actively quenching their success. Instead, it might be due to a lack of resources, support, or opportunity—the metaphorical “oil” required for one’s progress. Similarly, in relationships, it’s often not deliberate actions from a partner or friend that dull the connection but rather the absence of nurturing and care, like the “oil” that keeps the bond vibrant.
In broader contexts, societal progress or achievements can dwindle not because of external forces sabotaging them but due to insufficient resources, encouragement, or effort—the metaphorical “oil” needed to sustain growth and advancement. This adage emphasizes the crucial role of internal factors rather than external interference in the extinguishing of one’s pursuits or aspirations.