Meaning: This quote by H.L. Mencken succinctly captures the essence of self-respect in a wry and thought-provoking manner. Self-respect is the sense of inner worth and dignity that comes from feeling secure in one's identity, actions, and character. Mencken's playful yet incisive take on the concept of self-respect invites us to consider its relationship with the perception of others and the role of suspicion in shaping our sense of worth.

At its core, self-respect is about recognizing and valuing one's own worth, regardless of external validation or judgment. It encompasses a deep understanding of one's strengths, weaknesses, and values, and a commitment to upholding one's integrity and principles. When Mencken refers to the "secure feeling that no one, as yet, is suspicious," he touches on the idea that self-respect is rooted in a sense of inner certainty and confidence, free from the shadow of doubt or mistrust from others.

The quote also alludes to the role of external perception in shaping our sense of self-respect. Mencken suggests that the absence of suspicion from others contributes to the feeling of security in one's self-respect. This raises the question of how much our own self-worth is influenced by the opinions and judgments of those around us. While self-respect is fundamentally an internal quality, it is undeniably influenced by the way we are perceived by others. The absence of suspicion from others can validate and reinforce our own self-assessment, contributing to a stronger sense of self-respect.

Moreover, the quote's use of the phrase "as yet" implies a temporality to the state of being free from suspicion. It acknowledges the transient and evolving nature of external perceptions and the potential for suspicion to arise in the future. This serves as a reminder that self-respect is not a static state, but a dynamic and ongoing process that requires continuous self-awareness and introspection. It highlights the need to cultivate and maintain self-respect independent of fluctuating external perceptions.

H.L. Mencken, the author of this quote, was a prominent American writer and social critic known for his wit, skepticism, and keen observations of human nature and society. His perspective on self-respect reflects his characteristic blend of insight and irreverence, offering a fresh angle on a timeless and universal concept.

In conclusion, Mencken's quote encapsulates the essence of self-respect as a deeply rooted sense of inner worth and dignity, free from the cloud of suspicion from others. It prompts us to consider the interplay between our internal sense of self-worth and the external perceptions that shape it, as well as the dynamic nature of self-respect as an ongoing process. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a strong and unwavering sense of self-worth, regardless of external opinions or suspicions.