Identity Quote by Thomas Merton
““He who is controlled by objects Loses possession of his inner self: If he no longer values himself, How can he value others? If he no longer values others, He is abandoned. He has nothing left!””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Seven Storey Mountain, Thomas Merton, 1948
Obsessing over material possessions erodes self‑worth, which then prevents valuing others, leading to isolation and emptiness.
In simple terms: Too much focus on things destroys self‑value and relationships.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize inner growth over external things.
Themes
materialism
self‑worth
relationships
spirituality
isolation
Mood
contemplative
serious
hopeful
Type
philosophical
spiritual
self‑help
When to use this quote
- personal development
- spiritual counseling
- financial planning
- relationship coaching
Key Concepts
detachment
self‑knowledge
ethical living
Questions to Reflect On
- How do possessions shape our identity?
- What practices restore inner value beyond material gain?
A Different Perspective
The view may simplify complex psychological factors behind self‑esteem.
![“In the worldly life, due to maadakta (intoxication of the ego of ‘I am Chandubhai’), one has completely lost awareness of everything about one’s self. Everything in the worldly life is nothing but intoxication. The food is intoxicating, the senses are intoxicating. [Therefore] Go to the one, who…” quote by Dada Bhagwan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b3/dada-bhagwan-31_absolute_in-the-worldly-life-due-to-maadakta-into_3662.jpg)
