Do not be wedded forever to fear, yoked eternally to brutishness.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Do not be wedded forever to fear, yoked eternally to brutishness" speaks to the enduring human struggle against negative and limiting emotions and behaviors. It urges individuals to liberate themselves from the shackles of perpetual fear and the destructive patterns of brutish behavior.
Fear, in its many forms, can paralyze and restrict us. It is a natural response designed to protect us from harm, yet when it becomes excessive or chronic, it can imprison us within our own minds. Being "wedded forever to fear" suggests a state of being where fear dictates our choices, prevents us from taking necessary risks, and stifles personal growth. This could manifest in various aspects of life — from relationships and career decisions to personal aspirations and self-expression.
On the other hand, "yoked eternally to brutishness" refers to a life governed by base instincts, impulsivity, and a lack of empathy or consideration for others. It points to behaviors that are primitive, aggressive, or lacking in moral or ethical awareness. Such behaviors often lead to harm, both to oneself and to those around us, perpetuating cycles of conflict and suffering.
Together, the quote encourages us to transcend these negative influences. It calls for a conscious effort to break free from the dominance of fear and the dehumanizing effects of brutish behavior. This liberation involves cultivating courage in the face of fear — not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it. It also entails embracing qualities such as empathy, compassion, and reason, which elevate us beyond our primal instincts.
In a broader sense, the quote challenges us to strive for a higher standard of existence. It prompts us to aspire towards a life characterized by courage, kindness, and wisdom. By rejecting the permanence of fear and brutishness, we open ourselves to the possibility of personal transformation and collective progress. It encourages us to envision and pursue a future where fear is a transient visitor, and brutishness is replaced by enlightened and humane behavior.
Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of our capacity for growth and our responsibility to transcend the limitations imposed by our primal instincts and negative emotions. It invites us to embark on a journey towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and moral integrity, thereby contributing to a more compassionate and harmonious world.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Do not be wedded forever to fear, yoked eternally to brutishness." is often attributed to Maya Angelou (Bio / Quotes). Maya Angelou was an American poet, author, and civil rights activist who is best known for her memoir "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
