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Ours is a time of anxiety because we have willed it to be…

“Ours is a time of anxiety because we have willed it to be so. Our anxiety is not imposed on us by force from outside. We impose it on our world and upon one another from within ourselves.” quote by Thomas Merton
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“Ours is a time of anxiety because we have willed it to be so. Our anxiety is not imposed on us by force from outside. We impose it on our world and upon one another from within ourselves.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

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

Anxiety arises from our own choices and mental habits, not merely external forces; we create it by how we interpret and react to the world.

In simple terms: Anxiety is self‑generated.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and change the thoughts that fuel anxiety.

Themes

anxiety choice mindset

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • work stress
  • political climate
  • media consumption

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑fulfilling prophecy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What thoughts are you feeding that sustain your anxiety?
  • How could you reframe a stressful situation?
A Different Perspective

Anxiety can also be a useful signal for needed change, not just a problem.

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