"Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone - we find it with another"
- Thomas Merton
About this Quote
This quote by Thomas Merton discuss the profound and interconnected nature of love and human existence. Merton recommends that love is not simply a part of life, however its supreme function or destiny. The sentiment reflects the concept that love is a guiding force that gives our lives suggesting and direction, implying that it is through relationships and connections with others that we genuinely understand ourselves and our function.
The phrase "Love is our true fate" suggests that love is fundamentally connected to our fate or function as people. It suggests that irrespective of individual objectives or ambitions, the underlying current that drives human ventures is love. This could be understood as romantic love, familial love, friendships, or a wider compassion for humankind. Without love, life can feel aimless or doing not have in depth, as love improves our experiences and gives us a sense of belonging and fulfillment.
Additionally, Merton emphasizes the common element of discovering life's significance by stating, "We do not discover the meaning of life by ourselves alone". This element suggests the value of relationships and neighborhood. Humans are inherently social animals, and our interactions and connections with others frequently lead to self-discovery and individual growth. The quote motivates us to seek connections and to comprehend that our relationships are integral to finding function and contentment.
In the final part, "... we find it with another", Merton highlights the collaborative and cooperative nature of the quest for significance. It underscores that life's journey is not planned to be a solitary one; rather, it is enriched and deepened through shared experiences and mutual support. By engaging with others, we start to understand ourselves much better, seeing ourselves reflected in the experiences, has a hard time, and victories of those around us.
In general, Merton's reflection is a call to welcome love and human connection as the cornerstone of a meaningful life. Through this lens, every encounter becomes an opportunity to meet our "real destiny", exposing not simply the essence of our own lives, but adding to the abundant tapestry of human experience.
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