We abandon the most important journey of our lives when we abandon desire. We leave our hearts by the side of the road and head off in the direction of fitting in, getting by, being productive, what have you. Whatever we might gain – money, position, the approval of others, or just absence of the discontent self – it’s not worth it.
Interpretation
Abandoning our true desires leads to a life unfulfilled by superficial achievements.
This quote by John Eldredge suggests that the most significant journey we can embark on is the pursuit of our authentic desires. When we focus on conforming to societal expectations or pursuing material gains, we neglect our true selves and emotional fulfillment, ultimately leading to regret. The quote emphasizes that while external achievements may seem rewarding, they cannot replace the deep satisfaction that comes from following our true passions and desires.
In practice
In a motivational speech to encourage people to follow their passions.
But I cannot forget that, at other times I have been deceived in sleep by similar illusions; and, attentively considering those cases, I perceive so clearly that there exist no certain marks by which the state of waking can ever be distinguished from sleep, that I feel greatly astonished; and in amazement I almost persuade myself that I am now dreaming.
I will call not just on Israel, but on the Palestinians, on the Arab States, and the international community to join us in this effort, because the burden of making hard choices must not be Israel’s alone.
I think most of us are outsiders. And I think that's good because it makes you question things.
And truly it demands something god like in him who has cast off the common motives of humanity, and has ventured to trust himself for a taskmaster. High be his heart, faithful his will, clear his sight, that he may in good earnest be doctrine, society, law, to himself, that a simple purpose may be to him as strong as iron necessity is to others!
Poverty is the worst form of violence.
For me, justice is the prime condition of humanity.
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