Women know the way to rear up children (to be just). They know a simple, merry, tender knack of tying sashes, fitting baby-shoes, and stringing pretty words that make no sense. And kissing full sense into empty words.
And I smiled to think God's greatness flowed around our incompleteness; Round our restlessness, His rest.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the coexistence of divine greatness and human imperfection, suggesting that while humans may be restless, there is a profound peace in the divine presence.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning's quote suggests a deep philosophical perspective on the relationship between divine greatness and human imperfection. It highlights the idea that God's greatness surrounds our flaws and restlessness. Instead of being diminished by our incompleteness, we can find solace in the divine rest that contrasts with our struggles, implying that peace and fulfillment can be found even amidst human shortcomings.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a meditation session to encourage reflection on the balance between our struggles and spiritual peace.
More from Elizabeth Barrett Browning
All quotes βShe has seen the mystery hid Under Egypt's pyramid: By those eyelids pale and close Now she knows what Rhamses knows.
First time he kissed me, he but only kissed The fingers of this hand wherewith I write; And, ever since, it grew more clean and white.
Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God: But only he who sees takes off his shoes.
Our Euripides the human, With his droppings of warm tears, and his touchings of things common Till they rose to meet the spheres.
Love me sweet With all thou art Feeling, thinking, seeing; Love me in the Lightest part, Love me in full Being.
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To consider this desirable would be to delight in the slaughter of men; and he who delights in the slaughter of men cannot get his will in the kingdom.
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