The creator of the heavens obeys a carpenter; the God of eternal glory listens to a poor virgin. Has anyone ever witnessed anything comparable to this? Let the philosopher no longer disdain from listening to the common laborer; the wise, to the simple; the educated, to the illiterate; a child of a prince, to a peasant.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of humility and the value of every individual's perspective, regardless of their social status or education.
Anthony Of Padua highlights the profound truth that wisdom and authority exist in unexpected places, suggesting that even the highest of beings can show humility and listen to those who might seem less significant. This calls for an appreciation of all voices in society, encouraging a mindset that values insights from every level, be it the educated or the uneducated, the rich or the poor, thereby fostering a more inclusive and understanding community.
In practice
In a speech about inclusive education, this quote serves as a reminder to listen to students from all backgrounds.
Men will surrender to the spirit of the age. They will say that if they had lived in our day, faith would be simple and easy. But in their day, they will say, things are complex; the Church must be brought up to date and made meaningful to the day's problems.
Damned money! Alas! How many religious did it blind! How many cloistered religious did it deceive! Money is the 'droppings of birds' that blinded the eyes of Tobit.
The spirit of humility is sweeter than honey, and those who nourish themselves with this honey produce sweet fruit.
Christians must lean on the Cross of Christ just as travelers lean on a staff when they begin a long journey.
The life of the body is the soul; the life of the soul is God.
Earthly riches are like the reed. Its roots are sunk in the swamp, and its exterior is fair to behold; but inside it is hollow. If a man leans on such a reed, it will snap off and pierce his soul.
Blind nature will nearly always select the most probable, but man can let the most improbable become actual.
It's very attractive to people to be a victim. Instead of having to think out the whole situation, about history and your group and what you are doing... if you begin from the point of view of being a victim, you've got it half-made. I mean intellectually.
Man must reconcile himself to his natural greatness.... he must not forget that he is a person.
Shall I part my hair behind Do I dare to eat a peach I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each. I do not think that they will sing to me.
Things have changed for the worse. That's why former eastern bloc countries are electing communists again. We are missing them and longing for the times we cursed before.
It is a hard matter, my fellow citizens, to argue with the belly, since it has no ears.
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