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Your mission is proving that a love for the earth, and for the things of the earth, is possible without materialism, a love without greed... I entreat you not to be turned by the call of vulgar strength, of stupendous size, by the spirit of storage, by the multiplication of millions, without meaning and without end. Cherish the ideal of perfection, and to that, relate all your work and all your movements. Though you love the material things of earth, they will not hurt you and you will bring heaven to earth and soul into things.

Rabindranath Tagore#188

PurposeEthicsWorkMaterialismPerfectionEarthEnvironmentIdealism

About this quote

What does it mean?
Love for the earth should exist without greed or materialism. Cherish perfection and relate all work to that ideal to bring heaven to earth.
In plain terms
Love the world without being greedy or focused on material gain.
What can you take from it?
Pursue perfection and meaningful work over material accumulation.

Where it applies

  • environmental activism
  • career choice
  • ethical living

Putting it to work

  • minimize consumption
  • focus on quality work
  • volunteer for earth causes

Questions to consider

  • What work aligns with your ideals?
  • How can you love the earth without greed?

Another view

Idealizing perfection can lead to impractical standards for daily life.

More from Rabindranath Tagore

  1. You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water. Don't let yourself indulge in vain wishes.

    Permalink to quote #187
  2. In the drowsy dark cave of the mind, dreams build their nest with fragments dropped from day's caravan.*

    Permalink to quote #189
  3. You are invited to the festival of this world and your life is blessed.

    Permalink to quote #186

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