Let not our longing slay the appetite of our living.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote “Let not our longing slay the appetite of our living” encapsulates a profound wisdom about balancing aspirations with present existence. At its core, it admonishes against allowing our desires for future achievements or experiences to overshadow our ability to fully engage with and appreciate our current life.
Longing, in this context, represents a yearning for something yet to come—a goal, a dream, or a future state of being. It’s a natural human inclination to envision and strive towards a better tomorrow. However, if this longing becomes all-consuming, it can detract from our capacity to enjoy and make the most of our present moments.
The “appetite of our living” refers to our immediate experiences, the day-to-day joys, challenges, relationships, and opportunities that shape our current reality. These are the elements that enrich our lives in the here and now. By allowing our longing to “slay” or diminish this appetite, we risk losing sight of the value inherent in our present circumstances.
The quote urges us to strike a balance between ambition and contentment, between striving for future goals and embracing the present moment. It encourages mindfulness and presence—being fully present and engaged in our daily lives while also nurturing our aspirations and dreams for the future.
Moreover, it suggests that fulfillment and happiness aren’t solely found in the attainment of future desires but also in appreciating and making the most of our current experiences. It calls for a conscious awareness of time, urging us not to postpone our joy or satisfaction indefinitely while waiting for some future event or achievement.
In essence, “Let not our longing slay the appetite of our living” serves as a reminder to cultivate a holistic approach to life—one that balances ambition with appreciation, and that cherishes both the journey towards our goals and the richness of our present existence. It invites us to savor the moments we have now, even as we strive towards what lies ahead, ensuring that our pursuit of the future enhances rather than diminishes the quality of our present life.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Let not our longing slay the appetite of our living.” is often attributed to Jim Elliot (Quotes). Jim Elliot was a Christian missionary known for his commitment to spreading Christianity to indigenous people in Ecuador.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
