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
The rule of the universe is that others can do for us what we cannot do for ourselves, and one can paddle every canoe except one's own.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We often need help from others to achieve what we cannot do alone.
C. S. Lewis highlights the fundamental truth that while we may rely on others for various aspects of life, there are certain personal challenges and responsibilities that only we can face. The metaphor of paddling one's own canoe symbolizes the idea that individual effort is essential for personal progress and self-discovery, even in a world where collaboration is vital.
Themes
HelpSelfUniverseResponsibilityCollaboration
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about teamwork and self-reliance.
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All quotes βI 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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