I am nothing but I must be everything.
Karl MarxRead
If we have chosen the position in life in which we can most of all work for mankind, no burdens can bow us down, because they are sacrifices for the benefit of all; then we shall experience no petty, limited, selfish joy, but our happiness will belong to millions, our deeds will live on quietly but perpetually at work, and over our ashes will be shed the hot tears of noble people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True happiness comes from contributing to the greater good rather than seeking selfish pleasures.
In this quote, Karl Marx emphasizes that fulfillment in life is attained through selfless service to humanity. When individuals position themselves to work for the welfare of others, their burdens become meaningful sacrifices, leading to a profound joy that transcends personal gain, thus creating a legacy that continues to inspire and benefit future generations.
Themes
HappinessSelflessnessServiceHumanitySacrificeLegacy
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating community service, one might say this quote to inspire volunteers.
More from Karl Marx
All quotes →Religion is the opiate of the people.
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Men make their own history, but they do not make it just as they please; they do not make it under circumstances chosen by themselves, but under circumstances directly encountered, given and transmitted from the past. The tradition of all the dead generations weighs like a nightmare on the brain of the living.
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To be radical is to grasp things by the root.
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Men's ideas are the most direct emanations of their material state.
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