Enlightenment is: absolute cooperation with the inevitable.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: At first glance, this quote may appear enigmatic, but its essence encapsulates profound wisdom about the nature of human existence and the pursuit of enlightenment. To comprehend its meaning, one must break it down into its key components.
"Enlightenment" in this context alludes to a state of profound spiritual awakening, self-realization, and inner wisdom. It signifies a higher level of consciousness where one transcends ordinary perceptions and attachments. Enlightenment is often associated with profound clarity, inner peace, and a deep understanding of the universe's inherent order.
"Absolute cooperation" implies a complete surrender or acceptance without resistance. It suggests aligning oneself harmoniously with the forces of life, destiny, and the unfolding of events. It means letting go of the futile struggle against the inexorable currents of existence and instead embracing them.
"The inevitable" refers to those aspects of life that are beyond our control – the unpredictable twists and turns, the natural cycles of birth and death, the flux of circumstances, and the continuous change that characterizes existence.
So, when we piece it all together, the quote conveys that true enlightenment is not found in resisting or attempting to control the uncontrollable aspects of life. Instead, it is discovered when we fully accept, embrace, and harmonize with the natural course of events, even when they seem challenging or adverse. It's about acknowledging the impermanence of life, relinquishing attachment to outcomes, and finding profound peace and wisdom in the face of life's unpredictability.
In essence, this quote teaches us that the path to enlightenment lies in surrendering our resistance to the inevitable, aligning ourselves with the flow of life, and finding transcendental wisdom and serenity in doing so. It encourages us to let go of the need to control every aspect of our lives and, instead, cultivate a deep trust in the inherent order of the universe. In this surrender, we may discover the profound truth that liberation and enlightenment are born out of cooperation with life's inherent wisdom, rather than struggling against it.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Enlightenment is: absolute cooperation with the inevitable." is often attributed to Anthony de Mello (Bio / Quotes). Anthony de Mello was an Indian Jesuit priest and psychotherapist, known for his writings on spirituality and personal growth.
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.