When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
Anthony De MelloRead
Think of a flabby person covered with layers of fat. That is what your mind can become - flabby, covered with layers of fat till it becomes too dull and lazy to think, to observe, to explore, to discover ... not wanting to be disturbed or questioned into wakefulness.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that an unchallenged mind can become dull and lazy, much like an unfit body.
Anthony De Mello uses the metaphor of a physically flabby person to illustrate how a mind that is not exercised can become stagnant and unproductive. Just as a lack of physical activity leads to a decline in fitness, a lack of intellectual stimulation results in a dull and lazy mind, resistant to new ideas and challenges, ultimately hindering personal growth and discovery.
Themes
MindGrowthIntellectStimulationDiscovery
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a motivational speech to encourage lifelong learning.
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The master never seemed to have his fill of gazing at his firstborn child. "What do you want him to be when he grows up?" someone asked. "Outrageously happy," said the master.
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The genius of a composer is found in the notes of his music; but analyzing the notes will not reveal his genius. The poet's greatness is contained in his words; yet the study of his words will not disclose his inspiration. God reveals himself in creation; but scrutinize creation as minutely as you wish, you will not find God, any more than you will find the soul through careful examination of your body.
Anthony De MelloRead
What is a loving heart? A loving heart is sensitive to the whole of life, to all persons; a loving heart doesn't harden itself to any persons or things.
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Problems only exist in the human mind.
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