Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
Will DurantRead
If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of appreciating our existence as a fundamental aspect of life.
Will Durant's quote reflects on the profound reality of human existence and suggests that failing to be amazed by the mere fact of our being is a tremendous oversight. It invites us to acknowledge the wonder of life itself, which is often taken for granted, and encourages a deeper reflection on our place in the universe.
Themes
ExistenceAmazedAppreciationLifeWonder
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about appreciation for life.
More from Will Durant
All quotes βThe greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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Civilizations come and go; they conquer the earth and crumble into dust; but faith survives every desolation.
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This is one of those cases in which the imagination is baffled by the facts.
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I have died in so many spectacular ways, and I remember shooting them all, too. I imagine all those deaths will flash in front of me when I'm on my death bed, faced with the real thing.
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