The evolution of man is the evolution of his consciousness, and 'consciousness' cannot evolve unconsciously. The evolution of man is the evolution of his will, and 'will' cannot evolve involuntarily.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
Laughter relieves us of superfluous energy, which, if it remained unused, might become negative, that is, poison. Laughter is the antidote.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Laughter helps us release excess energy and prevents negative emotions from building up.
This quote by G. I. Gurdjieff emphasizes the importance of laughter in our lives as a mechanism to release pent-up energy that, if not expressed, can lead to negativity or emotional toxicity. By laughing, we not only lighten our emotional load but also transform potentially harmful energy into something positive, acting as an antidote to stress and negativity.
Themes
LaughterEnergyNegativeAntidotePoison
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about stress management during a workshop, one might say this quote to highlight the benefits of laughter.
More from G. I. Gurdjieff
All quotes βConscious faith is freedom. Emotional faith is slavery. Mechanical faith is foolishness.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
Remember you come here having already understood the necessity of struggling with yourself β only with yourself. Therefore thank everyone who gives you the opportunity.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
It is the greatest mistake to think that man is always one and the same. A man is never the same for long. He is continually changing. He seldom remains the same even for half an hour.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
If a man could understand all the horror of the lives of ordinary people who are turning around in a circle of insignificant interests and insignificant aims, if he could understand what they are losing, he would understand that there can only be one thing that is serious for him - to escape from the general law, to be free. What can be serious for a man in prison who is condemned to death? Only one thing: How to save himself, how to escape: nothing else is serious.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
In order to understand the interrelation of truth and falsehood in life, a man must understand falsehood in himself, the constant incessant lies he tells himself.
G. I. GurdjieffRead
Similar quotes
It would take more than long-stemmed roses to change my view that you're a despicable cowardy custard and a disgrace to a proud family. Your ancestors fought in the Crusades and were often mentioned in despatches, and you cringe like a salted snail at the thought of appearing as Santa Claus before an audience of charming children who wouldn't hurt a fly. It's enough to make an aunt turn her face to the wall and give up the struggle.
P. G. WodehouseRead
America has never quite forgiven Europe for having been discovered somewhat earlier in history than itself.
Oscar WildeRead
[N]o party is any fun unless seasoned with folly.
Desiderius ErasmusRead
Some people try to get out of jury duty by lying. You don't have to lie. Tell the judge the truth. Tell him you'd make a terrific juror because you can spot guilty people.
George CarlinRead
I'm saving that rocker for the day when I feel as old as I really am.
Dwight D. EisenhowerRead
Monday is an awful way to spend 1/7 of your life.
Steven WrightRead