The service we render to others is really the rent we pay for our room on this earth. It is obvious that man is himself a traveler; that the purpose of this world is not 'to have and to hold' but "to give and serve."
Interpretation
Our contributions to others' lives are essential for our existence.
Wilfred Grenfell's quote highlights the importance of service and selflessness in our lives. It suggests that our time on Earth is meaningful when we focus on giving to others rather than merely accumulating wealth or possessions, underscoring the transient nature of life and the importance of fostering connections through acts of kindness and service.
In practice
This quote can be used during a community service event to inspire participants.
Well, I believe life is a Zen koan, that is, an unsolvable riddle. But the contemplation of that riddle - even though it cannot be solved - is, in itself, transformative. And if the contemplation is of high enough quality, you can merge with the divine.
To all those who have suffered as a consequence of our troubled past I extend my sincere thoughts and deep sympathy. With the benefit of historical hindsight we can all see things which we would wish had been done differently or not at all.
A blueprint for disaster in any society is when the elite are capable of insulating themselves.
War and drink are the two things man is never too poor to buy.
All cruel people describe themselves as paragons of frankness.
Truth does not pay homage to any society, ancient or modern. Society has to pay homage to Truth or die.
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