Monuments! what are they? the very pyramids have forgotten their builders, or to whom they were dedicated. Deeds, not stones, are the true monuments of the great.
Interpretation
True greatness is measured by actions rather than physical memorials.
In this quote, John Lothrop Motley emphasizes the transient nature of physical monuments, such as pyramids, which even history forgets over time. He suggests that the true legacy of a person lies in their deeds and contributions to society, rather than the stone structures that might commemorate them. The essence of greatness is found in the impact one has made in the world, which outlasts any monument created in their honor.
In practice
During a speech at a memorial service, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of actions over accolades.
Men that look no further than their outsides, think health an appurtenance unto life, and quarrel with their constitutions for being sick; but I that have examined the parts of man, and know upon what tender filaments that fabric hangs, do wonder that we are not always so; and considering the thousand doors that lead to death, do thank my God that we can die but once.
Your past is just a story. And once you realize this it has no power over you.
We do become our conversations. We really will become our associations.
Economic disasters or foolish wars are hardly guaranteed to bring about large-scale individual self-examination or renew the appeal of truly participatory democracy.
Our problem is within ourselves. We have found the means to blow the world physically apart. Spiritually, we have yet to find the means to put together the world's broken pieces.
Yoga is about the will, working with intelligence and self-reflexive consciousness, can free us from the inevitability of the wavering mind and outwardly directed senses.
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