A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
There is someone that I love even though I don't approve of what he does. There is someone I accept though some of his thoughts and actions revolt me. There is someone I forgive though he hurts the people I love the most. That person is......me.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote illustrates the complexities of self-love and acceptance despite one's flaws and mistakes.
C. S. Lewis captures the essence of self-acceptance in this quote, emphasizing that despite our own shortcomings and the negative impact of our actions on others, we must cultivate love and forgiveness towards ourselves. It highlights the inner conflict many face between self-criticism and the need for compassion, reminding us that accepting one’s imperfections is a crucial part of personal growth and healing.
Themes
Self-LoveAcceptanceForgivenessFlawsPersonal Growth
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a mental health awareness event to highlight the importance of self-acceptance.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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