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About this quote

What does it mean?
Enemies and possessions distract people from contemplating eternity and the fear of death.
In plain terms
Focusing on foes or things makes us ignore big existential truths.
What can you take from it?
Avoid distractions that make you forget what truly matters.

Where it applies

  • philosophical reflection
  • personal crisis
  • moral guidance

Putting it to work

  • meditation on mortality
  • reducing materialism
  • introspection

Questions to consider

  • What do you let distract you from big questions?
  • Do possessions truly matter in the end?

Another view

It assumes everyone cares about eternity or fear of death.

More from Gertrude Stein

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