Life batters and shapes us in all sorts of ways before…
““Life batters and shapes us in all sorts of ways before it's done, but those original selves which we were born with, and which I believe we continue in some measure to be no matter what, are selves which still echo with the holiness of their origin. I believe that what Genesis suggests is that this original self, with the print of God's thumb still upon it, is the most essential part of who we are and is buried deep in all of us as a source of wisdom and strength and healing which we can draw upon or, with our terrible freedom, not draw upon as we choose. I think that among other things all real art comes from that deepest self – painting, writing music, dance, all of it that in some way nourishes the spirit and enriches the understanding. I think that our truest prayers come from there too, the often unspoken, unbidden prayers that can rise out of the lives of unbelievers as well as believers whether they recognize them as prayers or not. And I think that from there also come our best dreams and our times of gladdest playing and taking it easy and all those moments when we find ourselves being better or stronger or braver or wiser than we are.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Our deepest, God‑shaped self holds innate wisdom, strength, and creative spark that can guide healing and art.
In simple terms: The original self is a source of inner power and inspiration.
Key Takeaway
Tap into that inner core for resilience and creativity.
Themes
spirituality
creativity
identity
healing
wisdom
Mood
reflective
hopeful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- artistic creation
- prayer
- meditation
- healing practices
Key Concepts
theology
psychology
artistic expression
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you recognize moments when your deepest self speaks?
- What practices help you stay connected to that inner source?
A Different Perspective
If we ignore this core, we may feel disconnected or ungrounded.