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About this quote

What does it mean?
Describes a person who derives meaning from saving others but loses purpose when failing.
In plain terms
He feels life is only worth living if he helps everyone, and loses purpose when he cannot.
What can you take from it?
Deriving self worth solely from helping others can lead to emptiness.

Where it applies

  • caregiving
  • activism
  • burnout

Putting it to work

  • separate worth from output
  • set boundaries

Questions to consider

  • What gives your life meaning?
  • Can you value yourself without serving others?

Another view

It may overlook genuine altruistic fulfillment.

More from Orson Scott Card

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