A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
Never, in peace or war, commit your virtue or your happiness to the future. Happy work is best done by the man who takes his long-term plans somewhat lightly and works from moment to moment 'as to the Lord.' It is only our daily bread that we are encouraged to ask for. The present is the only time in which any duty can be done or any grace received.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote advises against relying on future outcomes for happiness and emphasizes the importance of living in the present.
C. S. Lewis highlights the significance of focusing on the present moment rather than deferring happiness or virtue to future events. He suggests that true fulfillment and duty can only be realized in the 'now,' encouraging individuals to approach life with a light-heartedness about long-term plans while actively engaging in their current responsibilities.
Themes
PresentVirtueHappinessDutyWork
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a motivational talk about mindfulness.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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