"In the last analysis, the individual person is responsible for living his own life and for "finding himself." If he persists in shifting his responsibility to somebody else, he fails to find out the meaning of his own existence"

This quote by Thomas Merton emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's own life. He recommends that if an individual does not take responsibility for their own life, they will not be able to discover the meaning of their own existence. Merton is suggesting that it is up to the private to take control of their life and to make decisions that will lead them to a fulfilling life. He is likewise suggesting that if a specific counts on someone else to make choices for them, they will not have the ability to discover their own purpose in life. Eventually, Merton is emphasizing the value of taking responsibility for one's own life and making decisions that will lead to a meaningful presence.