Humankind’s greatest gift is that we are indeterminate beings. Unlike the tough and leathery seed of an acorn, which will grow into a magnificent oak tree, none of us has a predetermined final configuration of our ultimate essence. Our mental temperament is pliable. We make conscious and subconscious choices that govern who we become. Kilroy J. Oldster
About This Quote

Philosopher and poet Arthur Schopenhauer said, “Humankind’s greatest gift is that we are indeterminate beings. Unlike the tough and leathery seed of an acorn, which will grow into a magnificent oak tree, none of us has a predetermined final configuration of our ultimate essence. Our mental temperament is pliable. We make conscious and subconscious choices that govern who we become.” The analogy he uses here is that of a seed in its growing process.

An acorn seed's potentialities are limited--though it can grow into a beautiful oak tree, it can also grow into a stump instead. But a person's potentialities are limitless--a person can become a great artist, a great athlete, a great scientist, or a great leader, or anything else that comes to mind.

Source: Dead Toad Scrolls

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