As one studies these preconditions, one becomes saddened by the ease with which human potentiality can be destroyed or repressed, so that a fully-human person can seem like a miracle, so improbable a happening as to be awe-inspiring. And simultaneously one is heartened by the fact that self-actualizing persons do in fact exist, that they are therefore possible, that the gauntlet of dangers can be run, that the finish line can be crossed.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the fragility of human potential and the challenges in realizing it, while also celebrating the existence of self-actualized individuals.
Abraham Maslow highlights the delicate nature of human potential and the myriad obstacles that can suppress it. He expresses a duality of emotions: a sadness for how easily this potential can be stifled, making the emergence of a person who fully realizes their capabilities appear miraculous, yet simultaneously, he conveys hope in the existence of those who have transcended these challenges. The quote inspires admiration for those who overcome these barriers and achieve self-actualization.
In practice
In a motivational speech to encourage students to pursue their dreams.
It looks as if there were a single ultimate goal for mankind, a far goal toward which all persons strive. This is called variously by different authors self-actualization, self-realization, integration, psychological health, individuation, autonomy, creativity, productivity, but they all agree that this amounts to realizing the potentialities of the person, that is to say, becoming fully human, everything that person can be.
Dispassionate objectivity is itself a passion, for the real and for the truth.
The study of crippled, stunted, immature, and unhealthy specimens can yield only a cripple psychology and a cripple philosophy
Marriage is a school itself. Also, having children. Becoming a father changed my whole life. It taught me as if by revelation.
It seems that the necessary thing to do is not to fear mistakes, to plunge in, to do the best that one can, hoping to learn enough from blunders to correct them eventually.
I was awfully curious to find out why I didn't go insane.
Iβm thirty,β I said. βIβm five years too old to lie to myself and call it honor
Assertion is not argument; to contradict the statement of an opponent is not proof that you are correct.
Consider what each soil will bear, and what each refuses.
The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.
Let the human mind loose. It must be loose. It will be loose. Superstition and dogmatism cannot confine it.
Don't ever become a pessimist... a pessimist is correct oftener than an optimist, but an optimist has more fun, and neither can stop the march of events.
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