Each person has inside a basic decency and goodness. If he listens to it and acts on it, he is giving a great deal of what it is the world needs most. It is not complicated but it takes courage. It takes courage for a person to listen to his own goodness and act on it.

In this quote, Pablo Casals emphasizes the inherent goodness and decency within each individual. He suggests that every person carries a fundamental sense of what is right and just, and if they listen to that inner voice, they can contribute greatly to making the world a better place. Casals believes that acting on this goodness is one of the most impactful things a person can do, as it aligns them with what the world truly needs: compassion, honesty, and integrity.

Casals acknowledges, however, that acting on this inner goodness is not always easy. It requires courage to follow one’s moral compass, especially in a world that often challenges or even rewards less virtuous behaviors. Listening to the inner voice of goodness requires personal strength to resist the pressures and distractions of modern life, where self-interest can often override the pursuit of what's right.

The quote also highlights the simplicity of goodness, stating that it is not complicated—what is required is to simply listen and act on the natural sense of right and wrong that exists within all people. Yet, despite its simplicity, Casals points out that it is this very simplicity that makes it so challenging for individuals to consistently follow. It takes bravery to make decisions that are morally upright, especially when those decisions may go against the status quo or require personal sacrifice.

Ultimately, Casals’ words encourage us to trust our own goodness and have the courage to act according to our values, even when it may not be the easiest path. By doing so, we can contribute positively to society, offering the very decency and compassion the world needs to heal and progress.