Children Quote by Søren Kierkegaard
““I am poor—you are my riches; dark—you are my light; I own nothing, need nothing. And how could I own anything? After all, it is a contradiction that he can own something who does not own himself. I am happy as a child who is neither able to own anything nor allowed to. I own nothing, for I belong only to you; I am not, I have ceased to be, in order to be yours.” —Johannes the Seducer, from_Either/Or_””
About This Quote
Source Book: Either/Or by Søren Kierkegaard, 1843
The speaker expresses that true fulfillment comes from surrendering personal ownership and ego to a higher love, finding joy in self‑emptying devotion.
In simple terms: Joy comes from giving up self‑interest for love.
Key Takeaway
Embrace self‑lessness for deeper connection.
Themes
love
self‑sacrifice
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- marriage
- spiritual practice
- personal growth
- relationships
Key Concepts
existentialism
self‑identity
paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to own nothing?
- How can surrender enhance love?
A Different Perspective
Self‑sacrifice may lead to loss of personal boundaries.
