Everlasting Quote by Alan W. Watts
““The universe is everlasting. The reason that the universe is everlasting is that it does not live for itself. Therefore it lasts. Therefore the sage puts himself behind, and finds himself in front, regards his person as outside himself, and his person is preserved. Is it not because he does not live for himself that he realizes himself?””
About This Quote
The universe persists because it exists beyond self‑interest; the sage lives selflessly, finding preservation through self‑transcendence.
In simple terms: Self‑less living aligns with the universe's timelessness.
Key Takeaway
Practice humility and serve others.
Themes
philosophy
spirituality
selflessness
existence
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- meditation
- volunteering
- leadership training
Key Concepts
non‑attachment
ego dissolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How does self‑interest coexist with self‑lessness?
- Can personal goals support universal harmony?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can also drive progress.
![“[T]he question "What is everything?" has no meaning, even though it seems to be profound. [...] The point is, perhaps, that I am not looking for a verbal answer, just as when I ask for a kiss, I do not want a piece of paper with "A kiss" written on it. It is rather that metaphysical wonder looks…” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/705/alan-w-watts-9497_curiosity_t-he-question-what-is-everything-has-no_3984.jpg)
![“[T]he world as described is included in but is not the same as the world as it is. As a way of contemplation, it is being aware of life without thinking about it, and then carrying this on even while one is thinking, so that thoughts are not confused with nature.” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1ff/alan-w-watts-9497_contemplation_t-he-world-as-described-is-included-in-b_254933.jpg)
![“[S]een as a whole the universe is a harmony or symbiosis of patterns which cannot exist without each other.” quote by Alan W. Watts](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/782/alan-w-watts-9497_harmony_s-een-as-a-whole-the-universe-is-a-harmo_262535.jpg)
