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About this quote

What does it mean?
Static institutions divide people, while the living principle of life seeks unity and diversity.
In plain terms
Static rules divide, but life unites.
What can you take from it?
Favor living principles over static rules for unity.

Where it applies

  • organizational design
  • conflict resolution
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • build dynamic structures
  • avoid rigid divisions

Questions to consider

  • Where do static rules harm you?
  • How can unity be built?

Another view

Some structure is necessary for order and stability.

More from Rabindranath Tagore

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  2. Those who have everything but thee, my God, laugh at those who have nothing but thyself.

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  3. Things in which we do not take joy are either a burden upon our minds to be got rid of at any cost; or they are useful, and therefore in temporary and partial …

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