I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
James Russell LowellRead
'T is heaven alone that is given away; 'T is only God may be had for the asking.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True fulfillment and connection to the divine are attainable through sincere desire.
In this quote, James Russell Lowell emphasizes that while material possessions and earthly joys may be freely given or transient, a true relationship with God or a higher spiritual truth is something that can only be attained through genuine longing and request. It suggests that divine connection requires intention and seeking, rather than mere chance or superficial acquisition.
Themes
HeavenGodAskingSpiritualityFulfillment
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon about the importance of faith and yearning for divine connection.
More from James Russell Lowell
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Puritanism, believing itself quick with the seed of religious liberty, laid, without knowing it, the egg of democracy.
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Books are the bees which carry the quickening pollen from one to another mind.
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