Skip to content

We all yearn to fly. We are creatures of longing. We do…

“We all yearn to fly. We are creatures of longing. We do not need to [physically fly] to be airborne. What I call the aerial instinct-the drive to transcend our present condition- is the defining characteristic of a human being. We are restless animals, eternal travelers who are forever in the…” quote by Sam Keen
Download Open image
“We all yearn to fly. We are creatures of longing. We do not need to [physically fly] to be airborne. What I call the aerial instinct-the drive to transcend our present condition- is the defining characteristic of a human being. We are restless animals, eternal travelers who are forever in the process of becoming. Consciousness itself is a flight from the here and now to the beyond. Our reach always exceeds our grasp, which is what Heaven is for ...”

Sam Keen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The human drive to transcend ordinary limits is innate, shaping our restless quest for growth and meaning.

In simple terms: Humans constantly seek to rise above their current state.

Key Takeaway

Embrace your inner drive to transcend.

Themes

longing transcendence human nature growth

Mood

hopeful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • creative projects
  • spiritual practice
  • education
  • career advancement

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits are you willing to challenge?
  • How does your “aerial instinct” shape your goals?
A Different Perspective

The desire to transcend can lead to dissatisfaction with present life.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Sam Keen

Explore all 104 Sam Keen quotes

More Airborne quotes

Browse all 51 Airborne quotes