He quivered on the ground his face pressed to the stone…
““He quivered on the ground his face pressed to the stone and didn’t rise. “Did you… did you just stick yourself to the ground?” Kaladin asked. “Just part of the plan, gon!’ Lopen called back. “If I am to become a delicate cloud upon the sky I must first convince the ground that I am not abandoning her. Like a worried lover, sure, she must be comforted and reassured that I will return following my dramatic and regal ascent to the sky. . . . Nearby, Lopen talked to the ground, against which he was still pressed. “Don’t worry dear one. The Lopen is vast enough to be possessed by many, many forces both terrestrial and celestial! I must soar to the air, for if I were to remain only on the ground, surely my growing magnitude would cause the land to crack and break””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
To achieve greatness, one must first convince the foundation that they will not abandon it.
In simple terms: Greatness requires reassuring your base.
Key Takeaway
Earn trust before aiming high.
Themes
ambition
trust
foundation
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- career advancement
- personal goals
Key Concepts
commitment
balance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain grounding while aspiring?
- What foundations need your reassurance?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting foundations leads to collapse.