--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Today, many people not only take the self…" description: "\"“Today, many people not only take the self for granted but struggle mightily to connect it to anything larger. In Lincoln’s time, the idea of the self ..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cb5/joshua-wolf-shenk-20627_identity_today-many-people-not-only-take-the-self_1496859.jpg" --- # Today, many people not only take the self for granted but… ![“Today, many people not only take the self for granted but struggle mightily to connect it to anything larger. In Lincoln’s time, the idea of the self had the power—tinged with uncertainty, even with danger—of something emerging and ascending.” quote by Joshua Wolf Shenk](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cb5/joshua-wolf-shenk-20627_identity_today-many-people-not-only-take-the-self_1496859.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cb5/joshua-wolf-shenk-20627_identity_today-many-people-not-only-take-the-self_1496859.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cb5/joshua-wolf-shenk-20627_identity_today-many-people-not-only-take-the-self_1496859.jpg) > ““Today, many people not only take the self for granted but struggle mightily to connect it to anything larger. In Lincoln’s time, the idea of the self had the power—tinged with uncertainty, even with danger—of something emerging and ascending.”” [Joshua Wolf Shenk](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/joshua-wolf-shenk/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. People often take the self for granted, yet connecting it to larger meaning is challenging. **In simple terms:** Self is often overlooked. Key Takeaway Link self to larger purpose. Themes identity meaning connection Mood introspective thoughtful Type philosophical analytical When to use this quote - therapy - creative writing - leadership development Key Concepts self‑concept existential purpose Questions to Reflect On - How do you define your self beyond roles? - What larger purpose guides you? 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