"It is only when men begin to worship that they begin to grow"

Calvin Coolidge’s words emphasize the transformative power of worship in human development. Worship, in this sense, extends beyond formal religious practices, it encompasses the act of reverencing, honoring, or dedicating oneself to something greater than oneself. When individuals pause to recognize a higher power, an ideal, or a noble purpose, they step outside the confines of self-centeredness. This act of outward focus initiates a journey of self-transcendence.

Worship can take many forms: reverence for God, awe in the face of nature, devotion to truth, or commitment to justice and goodness. Whatever its object, worship reorients a person’s perspective. It obliges individuals to acknowledge their limitations and impermanence, inspiring humility and gratitude. Such humility is the foundation of growth, because it allows one to admit gaps in knowledge, character, or ability and spurs the desire for improvement. Without a recognition of something greater, whether spiritual or ethical, people may remain confined to ego, pride, and stagnation.

Furthermore, worship organizes priorities. When the heart is devoted toward the highest good, lesser ambitions are subordinated. This process shapes character, as ideals begin to order actions, aspirations, and moral judgments. Individuals gradually grow into the likeness of what they worship, striving to understand, emulate, or serve it. Growth is thus not merely intellectual or material, but spiritual and moral, encompassing the development of virtues such as patience, integrity, compassion, and courage.

Finally, worship awakens aspirations for purposes beyond self-interest. It inspires contributions to family, community, or the broader world, fueling service and sacrifice. In looking beyond personal gain, people discover deeper fulfillment and meaning, finding their place within a larger, more enduring story. Coolidge’s insight suggests that only through reverence and devotion, through the act of worship, do individuals unlock the potential for true, holistic growth.