True parents do not see to it that their children grow in a particular way, according to a preferred pattern or scripted stages, but they see to it that they grow with their children.
A finite game is played for the purpose of winning, an infinite game for the purpose of continuing the play.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote distinguishes between finite games, focused on winning, and infinite games, which prioritize ongoing engagement.
In this quote, James P. Carse presents a profound philosophical distinction between two types of experiences: finite games, where players compete to win and the game concludes when someone triumphs, and infinite games, where the objective is not to win but to keep the game alive and foster continuous interaction. This perspective encourages individuals to embrace a mindset focused on growth and collaboration rather than solely on victory and outcomes.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about teamwork, one could use this quote to emphasize collaboration over competition.
More from James P. Carse
All quotes βWhat I have experienced, and experienced repeatedly, is the silence of God. For many years, this was a distressing matter for me. I did not consider it an experience, but the absence of an experience.
To be prepared against surprise is to be trained. To be prepared for surprise is to be educated.
Similar quotes
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Integrity is fundamental to being men. Integrity means being truthful, but it also means accepting responsibility and honoring commitments and covenants.
Revenge is a common passion; it is the sin of the uninstructed. The savage deems it noble;but the religion of Christ, which is the sublime civilizer, emphatically condemns it. Why? Because religion ever seeks to ennoble man; and nothing so debases him as revenge.
Those who want the fewest things are nearest to the gods.
We must choose between the violence of adults and the smiles of children. Between the ugliness of hate and the will to oppose it. Between inflicting suffering and humiliation on our fellow man and offering him the solidarity and hope he deserves.
I believe strongly in 'giving while living.' I see little reason to delay giving when so much good can be achieved through supporting worthwhile causes today. Besides, it's a lot more fun to give while you live than to give while you are dead.