Those who are too lazy and comfortable to think for themselves and be their own judges obey the laws. Others sense their own laws within them.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of independent thinking over blind obedience to external rules.
Hermann Hesse's quote contrasts two types of individuals: those who passively accept societal laws without questioning them, and those who cultivate their own inner sense of morality and judgment. It suggests that true wisdom and personal integrity come from self-reflection and the courage to think for oneself, rather than conforming to the expectations of society.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational seminar to encourage critical thinking and self-reflection.
I shall no longer be instructed by the Yoga Veda or the Aharva Veda, or the ascetics, or any other doctrine whatsoever. I shall learn from myself, be a pupil of myself; I shall get to know myself, the mystery of Siddhartha." He looked around as if he were seeing the world for the first time.
That is where my dearest and brightest dreams have ranged β to hear for the duration of a heartbeat the universe and the totality of life in its mysterious, innate harmony.
I, also, would like to look and smile, sit and walk like that, so free, so worthy, so restrained, so candid, so childlike and mysterious. A man only looks and walks like that when he has conquered his Self. I also will conquer my Self.
You're quite right there," he said. "I have practiced abstinence myself for years, and had my time of fasting, too, but now I find myself once more beneath the sign of Aquarius, a dark and humid constellation.
I call that man awake who, with conscious knowledge and understanding, can perceive the deep unreasoning powers in his soul, his whole innermost strength, desire and weakness, and knows how to reckon with himself.
Despair is the result of each earnest attempt to go through life with virtue, justice and understanding, and to fulfill their requirements. Children live on one side of despair, the awakened on the other side.
It's amazing how easily people are led to fury and chaos. Unhappy people with guns are not going to make this country great.
The world cares very little about what a man or woman knows; it is what the man or woman is able to do that counts.
I used to think God guided us by opening and closing doors, but now I know sometimes God wants us to kick some doors down.
I know the compassion of others is a relief at first. I don't despise it. But it can't quench pain, it slips through your soul as through a sieve. And when our suffering has been dragged from one pity to another, as from one mouth to another, we can no longer respect or love it.
Since luck's a nine days' wonder, wait their end.
If you must make a mistake, make a new one each time.
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