Immauel Kant

Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) - German philosopher from the Prussian city of Königsberg. He published important works on science, religion, law, and history, believing himself to be creating a compromise between empiricism and rationalism (simply put - experience and reason combined rather than being each other 'opposites').



"Always recognize that human individuals are ends, and do not use them as means to your end."

"There can be no doubt that all our knowledge begins with experience."

"He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with men. We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals."

"Seek not the favor of the multitude; it is seldom got by honest and lawful means. But seek the testimony of few; and number not voices, but weigh them."

"Everything good that is not based on a morally good disposition, however, is nothing but pretense and glittering misery."

"Live your life as though your every act were to become a universal law."

- Immanuel Kant

Blessing of Solitude

from Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

May you recognize in your life
the presence, power, and light of your soul.
May you realize that you are never alone,
that your soul in its brightness and belonging
connects you intimately with the rhythm of the universe.
May you have respect for your own individuality and difference.
May you realize that the shape of your soul is unique,
that you have a special destiny here,
that behind the facade of your life there is something
beautiful, good, and eternal happening.
May you learn to see yourself with the same
delight, pride and expectation
with which God sees you in every moment.
- John O'Donohue

I've had this "in my keeping" for a while...and I love it because it has the same ring to it as for example the word of Max Ehrmann or Marianne Williamson, and many others...

That I am, we are, able. We need to believe and not try SO hard to be whatever our vision of perfect may be. We are good enough just the way we are...

Desiderata

A while back I, by 'chance' ;) , came across this poem by Max Ehrmann. As a signature on a forum I visit someone had quoted "You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here." and being a Lover of Words that I am I just had to find out Who had written these Beautiful Words. My search led me to Max Ehrmann and 'Desiderata' and these words are...the Truth! :) ...or at least from the perspective I have on Life and my Journey. ;) Be kind, listen, be (gentle with) yourself, nurture your spirit, Love, don't fear old age or what Life brings you...it's a beautiful world and you deserve happiness...

Me finding Max's words (that's right, we're on first name basis! ;)) led me to recieve more beautiful words by him, this time from my bosom buddy N! ♥
Funny thing about 'Chance' isn't it...it always happens right when you need it...! Hmmm... ;)

Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexatious to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself
You are a child of the universe
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
by Max Ehrmann
The Universe is unfolding as it should,