When you step further into the story you came to live, not only does the mythic territory open, but the deep self moves and the world of imagination and meaning comes towards you.
Michael MeadeRead
There's an African proverb: 'When death finds you, may it find you alive.' Alive means living your own damned life, not the life that your parents wanted, or the life some cultural group or political party wanted, but the life that your own soul wants to live.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Live authentically and true to yourself, ignoring external pressures.
This quote encourages individuals to embrace their own unique path in life rather than conforming to the expectations and desires imposed by others. It highlights the importance of living a life that resonates with one's true self, emphasizing personal authenticity as essential for fulfillment, even in the face of mortality.
Themes
AuthenticityLifeSelfLivingFreedom
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speech about embracing personal choices and authenticity.
More from Michael Meade
All quotes →Until, modern times when it became mostly a civic task, education was considered a sacred work. It was sacred because it involved the indwelling spirit in the student and because it required an awakened spirit in the teachers. Spirit to spirit, genius to genius, soul to soul go the true lessons that help young people become themselves. Ultimately, each person holds the key to the story trying to be lived from within, but first someone else must help unlock the mystery of one’s life.
Michael MeadeRead
In many tribal cultures, it was said that if the boys were not initiated into manhood, if they were not shaped by the skills and love of elders, then they would destroy the culture. If the fires that innately burn inside youths are not intentionally and lovingly added to the hearth of community, they will burn down the structures of culture, just to feel the warmth.
Michael MeadeRead
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