"Lord, grant that I might not so much seek to be loved as to love"
- Francis of Assisi
About this Quote
The quote "Lord, grant that I might not a lot seek to be enjoyed as to love," credited to St. Francis of Assisi, encapsulates a profound spiritual goal towards humbleness and altruism. It reflects a shift from looking for external recognition to cultivating an inward capacity for genuine love. This belief motivates prioritizing the act of loving others over the need to receive love, which lines up with St. Francis's more comprehensive mentors and lifestyle centered on humbleness and service.
In this plea, there is an implicit acknowledgment of the human propensity to desire love and approval, which frequently results in ego-driven actions. By requesting the strength to focus on caring rather than being liked, Francis is promoting for a redirection of energy from self-centered desires to outside, altruistic expressions of care and compassion. This shift supports a more significant and satisfying method to relationships and life as an entire, promoting a sense of connectedness and harmony with others.
Furthermore, the quote use the idea that love, when offered easily without expectation, ends up being a transformative force. It suggests that love's real essence is understood in acts of kindness, understanding, and kindness, which can ripple outwards, creating a positive influence on people and neighborhoods. Francis's words advise individuals to embody love actively, ending up being vessels through which divine love can stream.
Additionally, the plea for magnificent support ("Lord, grant") suggests a dependence on spiritual growth to accomplish such a generous state. It recognizes the challenge of getting rid of intrinsic human habits and underscores the need for grace and strength from a higher power in this journey.
In essence, St. Francis's quote is an invite to accept a method of living that prioritizes genuine love as an effective, transformative agent. It requires introspection and a purposeful shift towards empathy, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of peace and unity within oneself and with the larger world.
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