If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote serves as a powerful metaphor for the concept of risk-taking. It implies that if we focus only on keeping things safe and secure, we will never venture out and explore new territories or experiences. In order to grow, learn, and achieve our goals, we must be willing to take risks and accept the possibility of failure. Like the captain who must set sail to fulfill his purpose, we too must embrace the uncertainty of life and pursue our dreams despite the potential for setbacks
Who said the quote?
The quote "If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
What's the quote's message?
This quote carries a powerful message about the nature of leadership and the need to take risks in order to achieve greatness. If a captain's sole focus is on protecting the ship and avoiding any potential dangers, the ship will never fulfill its true purpose of sailing the open seas and exploring new horizons. The quote suggests that true leaders must be willing to venture into the unknown, embrace uncertainty, and take calculated risks in order to achieve their goals.
By analogy, this quote extends beyond the realm of sailing and can be applied to various aspects of life. It encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their ambitions, even if there are risks involved. It highlights the importance of embracing challenges, facing adversity, and pushing the boundaries of what is considered safe or familiar. It reminds us that in order to achieve great things, we must be willing to leave the safety of the harbor and embark on the journey of exploration, growth, and discovery.
Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder that progress and success often require us to go beyond our comfort zones, take calculated risks, and navigate the uncertainties of life with courage and determination. It encourages us to adopt a mindset of adventure and growth, recognizing that staying in our safe havens may provide temporary security but will never lead to significant accomplishments or the fulfillment of our true potential.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
In the 15th century, during the Age of Exploration, there was a renowned Portuguese captain named Bartolomeu Dias. Dias set sail in 1487 with the objective of finding a sea route to the lucrative spice trade in the East. His mission was not without risks, as he faced treacherous seas, unknown territories, and the uncertainty of the vast ocean.
As Dias embarked on his voyage, he encountered numerous challenges, including fierce storms and turbulent waters that threatened the safety of his crew and his ship. However, Dias understood that his highest aim as a captain was not simply to preserve his ship but to fulfill his mission and reach the desired destination.
Determined to overcome the obstacles, Dias pressed on, enduring the perils of the sea. He navigated along the southern tip of Africa, which later became known as the Cape of Good Hope. By successfully rounding this treacherous cape, Dias opened the way for future expeditions and ultimately paved the path for Vasco da Gama's voyage to India.
Dias's courageous decision to venture beyond the safety of the port exemplifies the quote's wisdom. If his sole focus had been to protect his ship, he would have never embarked on the daring journey. By embracing the inherent risks and challenges, Dias achieved greatness and left a lasting impact on maritime history.
This historical example illustrates that great accomplishments often require individuals to take calculated risks and venture into uncharted territories. It emphasizes the notion that progress and success are often achieved by pushing beyond the confines of safety and comfort, even if there are inherent risks involved.
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.
