Accepting Quote by Thomas Merton
““In other words, I have tried to learn in my writing a monastic lesson I could probably not have learned otherwise: to let go of my idea of myself, to take myself with more than one grain of salt... In religious terms, this is simply a matter of accepting life, and everything in life as a gift, and clinging to none of it, as far as you are able. You give some of it to others, if you can. Yet one should be able to share things with others without bothering too much about how they like it, either, or how they accept it. Assume they will accept it, if they need it. And if they don’t need it, why should they accept it? That is their business. Let me accept what is mine and give them all their share, and go my way.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948
The passage urges releasing self‑attachment, viewing life as a gift, and sharing freely without seeking approval.
In simple terms: Let go of self‑image, accept life, share without needing validation.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility, give without expectation.
Themes
humility
acceptance
generosity
self‑release
Mood
reflective
calm
inspirational
Type
philosophical
spiritual
advice
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- community service
- creative work
- teaching
- mentoring
Key Concepts
spirituality
monastic discipline
gift theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you share without needing approval?
- What does treating life as a gift change your actions?
A Different Perspective
It may be hard to detach from ego and fear rejection.
