For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote by Carl Sagan reflects on the human experience within the context of the vast and seemingly indifferent universe. It suggests that our ability to comprehend and find meaning in the immense scale of the cosmos is made possible, or at least more meaningful, through our capacity for love, connection, and emotional bonds.
At its core, this quote acknowledges the inherent sense of smallness and insignificance that can arise when contemplating the vastness of the universe. The universe, with its billions of galaxies, stars, and planets, can evoke a sense of cosmic humility, reminding us of our relative size and brevity in the grand scheme of things.
However, the quote suggests that while the universe may be vast and indifferent to our existence, it is within the realm of human emotions, particularly love, that we find a source of meaning and connection that transcends this existential awareness of our smallness. Love, in its various forms—love for family, friends, partners, or humanity as a whole—provides us with a profound sense of purpose and belonging.
Love allows us to find significance not just in the grand cosmic scales but in the everyday experiences, relationships, and interactions that shape our lives. It imbues our existence with meaning and gives us the strength to face the challenges and uncertainties of life. It reminds us that even in the face of vastness and indifference, our ability to connect with others and to love and be loved is a precious and powerful force.
This quote encourages us to embrace our humanity, with all its vulnerabilities and imperfections, and to recognize that it is through our capacity for love and emotional connection that we find resilience and meaning in a universe that may otherwise seem overwhelmingly vast and impersonal. In essence, it celebrates the human spirit's ability to find light and warmth in the cosmic darkness.
Who said the quote?
The quote "For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love." is often attributed to Carl Sagan (Quotes). Carl Sagan was a prominent astrophysicist and science communicator known for popularizing complex scientific concepts through books and television, notably the series "Cosmos."
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.