In the Will work and acquire, and thou hast chained the wheel of Chance, and shalt sit hereafter out of fear from her rotations. A political victory, a rise of rents, the recovery of your sick, or the return of your absent friend, or some other favorable event, raises your spirits, and you think good days are preparing for you. Do not believe it. Nothing can bring you peace but yourself. Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Emerson warns that external successes are fleeting and true peace comes from inner principles.
- In plain terms
- Only inner principles bring lasting peace.
- What can you take from it?
- Don't rely on luck; follow your values.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can inner peace survive real hardship?
Another view
External factors can still impact wellbeing despite inner strength.
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