I prefer to be a dreamer among the humblest, with visions to be realized, than lord among those without dreams and desires.
Khalil GibranRead
You see but your shadow when you turn your back to the sun.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that when we ignore or turn away from what enlightens us, we only see the darker aspects of ourselves.
Khalil Gibran's quote emphasizes the idea that by turning our back on the light—symbolizing knowledge, truth, or enlightenment—we become aware only of our shadows, which represent fear, doubt, and negativity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting and embracing our truths instead of succumbing to darkness or ignorance that occurs when we avoid enlightenment.
Themes
ShadowSunEnlightenmentTruthDarkness
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth, this quote could illustrate the importance of facing one’s fears.
More from Khalil Gibran
All quotes →Be patient, for it is from doubt that knowledge is born.
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Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother.
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God made Truth with many doors to welcome every believer who knocks on them.
Khalil GibranRead
Happiness is a vine that takes root and grows within the heart, never outside it.
Khalil GibranRead
Solitude has soft, silky hands, but with strong fingers it grasps the heart and makes it ache with sorrow.
Khalil GibranRead
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