It does not follow that the meaning must be given from above; that life and suffering must come neatly labeled; that nothing is worth while if the world is not governed by a purpose.
Walter KaufmannRead
Man stands alone in the universe, responsible for his condition, likely to remain in a lowly state, but free to reach above the stars.
Interpretation
Humans are responsible for their own existence and choices, with the potential to rise above their circumstances.
This quote emphasizes the solitary nature of human existence in the vast universe, highlighting the individual's responsibility for their own situation. It suggests that while one may start from a humble position, they possess the freedom and potential to achieve greatness and aspire to higher ideals, thereby transcending their current state.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a motivational speech emphasizing personal responsibility.
It does not follow that the meaning must be given from above; that life and suffering must come neatly labeled; that nothing is worth while if the world is not governed by a purpose.
Life ceases to be so oppressive: we are free to give our own lives meaning and purpose, free to redeem our suffering by making something of it.
The only theism worthy of our respect believes in God not because of the way the world is made but in spite of that. The only theism that is no less profound than the Buddha's atheism is that represented in the Bible by Job and Jeremiah.
Success is no proof of virtue. In the case of a book, quick acclaim is presumptive evidence of a lack of substance and originality.
One of the most interesting reactions to come out of 1968 was in the first publication of the Trilateral Commission, which believed there was a 'crisis of democracy' from too much participation of the masses.
A person places themselves on a level with the ones they praise.
The more you know about Christ, the less you will be satisfied with superficial views of Him.
For me, the Immaculate Conception is the feast of 'passive action,' the action that functions simply by the transmission through us of divine energy. Purity, in spite of outward appearances, is essentially an active virtue, because it concentrates God in us and on those who are subject to our influence.
There is no justification without sanctification, no forgiveness without renewal of life, no real faith from which the fruits of new obedience do not grow.
Whenever you are alone, remind yourself that God has sent everyone else away so that there is only you and Him.
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