Skip to content

...The more I think of them, the more I realize that I…

“...The more I think of them, the more I realize that I must certainly owe the Privats for more than butter and milk and good nourishing food for my body. I am indebted to them for much more than the kindness and care they showed me, the goodness and the delicate solicitude with which they treated…” quote by Thomas Merton
Download Open image
““...The more I think of them, the more I realize that I must certainly owe the Privats for more than butter and milk and good nourishing food for my body. I am indebted to them for much more than the kindness and care they showed me, the goodness and the delicate solicitude with which they treated me as their own child, yet without any assertive or natural familiarity… That was why I was glad of the love the Privats showed me, and was ready to love them in return. It did not burn you, it did not hold you, it did not try to imprison you in demonstrations, or trap your feet in the snares of its interest.””

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.

The passage expresses deep gratitude for a community that provides nurturing care beyond material needs, emphasizing love that is free, non‑possessive, and supportive.

In simple terms: Grateful for caring community that loves without control.

Key Takeaway

Cherish and reciprocate selfless love.

Themes

gratitude community love

Mood

warm reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • family relationships
  • spiritual mentorship
  • supportive friendships
  • community involvement

Key Concepts

spirituality interpersonal bonds

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we give back to those who nurture us?
  • What boundaries keep love healthy?
A Different Perspective

Such love may still involve subtle expectations or dependencies.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas Merton

Explore all 851 Thomas Merton quotes

More Kindness quotes

Browse all 6,600 Kindness quotes