Real understanding does not come from what we learn in books; it comes from what we learn from love of nature, of music, of man. For only what is learned in that way is truly understood.
Interpretation
True understanding arises from experiences and passions rather than just academic knowledge.
Pablo Casals emphasizes that genuine understanding transcends mere intellectual learning. He suggests that the deeper insights about life, humanity, and the world stem from our love for nature, art, and interpersonal relationships, highlighting that emotional and experiential learning leads to true comprehension.
In practice
In a speech about environmental conservation, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of connecting with nature.
Bach is the supreme genius of music... This man, who knows everything and feels everything, cannot write one note, however unimportant it may appear, which is anything but transcendent. He has reached the heart of every noble thought, and has done it in the most perfect way.
In music, in the sea, in a flower, in a leaf, in an act of kindness... I see what people call God in all these things.
The love of one's country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border?
The child must know that he is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him.
I am an old man but in many senses a very young man. And this is what I want you to be, young, young all your life.
To the whole world you might be just one person, but to one person you might just be the whole world.
Having a strong sense of self is fundamental to you, no matter what you're doing. I don't care if you're a stay at home mom raising kids or if you're the CEO of a corporation. It's really important for your survival.
True wisdom consists in two things: Knowledge of God and Knowledge of Self.
Control is illusory. No matter what university you go to, no matter what degree you hold, if your goal is to becomes master of your own destiny, you have more to learn.
Once we accept our limits, we go beyond them.
At 46 one must be a miser; only have time for essentials.
Memory, when duly impregnated with ascertained facts, is sometimes surprisingly fertile.
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