When a man achieves a fair measure of harmony within himself and his family circle, he achieves peace; and a nation made up of such individuals and groups is a happy nation. As the harmony of a star in its course is expressed by rhythm and grace, so the harmony of a man's life-course is expressed by happiness; this, I believe, is the prime desire of mankind. 'The universe is an almost untouched reservoir of significance and value,' and man need not be discouraged because he cannot fathom it. His view of life is no more than a flash in time. The details and distractions are infinite. It is only natural, therefore, that we should never see the picture whole. But the universal goal - the attainment of harmony - is apparent. The very act of perceiving this goal and striving constantly toward it does much in itself to bring us closer, and therefore, becomes an end in itself. ~ Ch. 6
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Inner harmony leads to peace, which scales to national happiness.
- In plain terms
- Peaceful individuals create peaceful families and nations.
- What can you take from it?
- Cultivate inner harmony to contribute to societal peace.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you find harmony?
- What brings your community peace?
Another view
Structural inequalities can prevent harmony regardless of individual effort.
More from Richard E. Byrd
The things that mankind has tested and found right make for harmony and progress - or peace; and the things it has found wrong hinder progress and make for dis…
Permalink to quote #12 Few men during their lifetime come anywhere near exhausting the resources dwelling within them. There are deep wells of strength that are never used. ~ CH. 7
Permalink to quote #14 The human race, my intuition tells me, is not outside the cosmic process and is not an accident. It is as much a part of the universe as the trees, the mountai…
Permalink to quote #11
Related quotes
If life isn't about human beings and living in harmony, then I don't know what it's about.
Orlando BloomOrlando Bloom quote #4 What is sad for women of my generation is that they weren't supposed to work if they had families. What were they to do when the children were grown - watch ra…
Jacqueline Kennedy OnassisJacqueline Kennedy Onassis quote #13 We should really love each other in peace and harmony, instead we're fussin' n fighting like we ain't supposed to be.
Bob MarleyBob Marley quote #73