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About this quote

What does it mean?
The Cosmos encompasses all reality, and contemplating it evokes a profound sense of mystery and humility in us.
In plain terms
Everything that exists is the Cosmos and thinking about it makes us feel small and curious.
What can you take from it?
Contemplate the vastness of the Cosmos to feel humility and wonder.

Where it applies

  • stargazing
  • philosophical reflection
  • scientific study

Putting it to work

  • look up at stars
  • question origins

Questions to consider

  • What do you feel when looking at the stars?
  • How small does the cosmos make you feel?

Another view

Not everyone feels awe when contemplating the cosmos.

More from Carl Sagan

  1. In the vastness of space and the immensity of time, it is my joy to share a planet and an epoch with Annie.

    Permalink to quote #12
  2. The size and age of the Cosmos are beyond ordinary human understanding. Lost somewhere between immensity and eternity is our tiny planetary home. In a cosmic p…

    Permalink to quote #14
  3. There is a myth about such highs: the user has an illusion of great insight, but it does not survive scrutiny in the morning. I am convinced that this is an er…

    Permalink to quote #11

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