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Activity Quote by Thomas Merton

“In order to settle down in the quiet of our own being we must learn to be detached from the results of our own activity. We must be content to live without watching ourselves live, to work with expecting immediate reward, to love without an instant satisfaction, and to exist without any special…” quote by Thomas Merton
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“In order to settle down in the quiet of our own being we must learn to be detached from the results of our own activity. We must be content to live without watching ourselves live, to work with expecting immediate reward, to love without an instant satisfaction, and to exist without any special recognition. It is only when we are detached from ourselves that we can be at peace with ourselves.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain, 1948

Detachment from outcomes, expectations, and recognition leads to inner peace and contentment.

In simple terms: Being detached from results brings peace.

Key Takeaway

Practice non‑attachment.

Themes

spirituality mindfulness peace

Mood

tranquil reflective

Type

spiritual philosophical

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • creative work
  • relationships
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

Christian mysticism philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to stay engaged while detached?
  • What practices foster healthy detachment?
A Different Perspective

Detachment may be misinterpreted as apathy.

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