If we know exactly where we're going, exactly how to get there, and exactly what we'll see along the way, we won't learn anything.
M. Scott PeckRead
The trouble with putting armor on is that, while it protects you from pain, it also protects you from pleasure.
Interpretation
Armor can shield you from hurt, but it also blocks you from experiencing joy.
This quote by Celeste Holm highlights the dual nature of protective measures we take in life. While safeguarding ourselves from emotional pain can seem necessary, it can inadvertently prevent us from fully enjoying life and experiencing pleasure. This suggests a balance must be struck between protecting oneself and remaining open to joy.
In practice
In a speech about emotional resilience, one might say this quote to emphasize the importance of vulnerability.
If we know exactly where we're going, exactly how to get there, and exactly what we'll see along the way, we won't learn anything.
But they who give straight judgements to strangers and to those of the land and do not transgress what is just, for them the city flourishes and its people prosper.
Our greatest foes, and whom we must chiefly combat, are within.
Rain which falls upon the sea is useless; so is food for one who is satiated; in vain is a gift for one who is wealthy; and a burning lamp during the daytime is useless.
Wherever you are, be there totally. If you find your here and now intolerable and it makes you unhappy, you have three options: remove yourself from the situation, change it, or accept it totally. If you want to take responsibility for your life, you must choose one of those three options, and you must choose now. Then accept the consequences.
When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.