Awaken Quote by Thomas Merton
“There is in us an instinct for newness, for renewal, for a liberation of creative power. We seek to awaken in ourselves a force which really changes our lives from within. And yet the same instinct tells us that this change is a recovery of that which is deepest, most original, most personal in ourselves. To be born again is not to become somebody else, but to become ourselves.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948
Humans have an inner drive for renewal that restores their deepest authentic self, not a new persona.
In simple terms: Renewal restores our true self.
Key Takeaway
Embrace inner change to become authentic.
Themes
self‑discovery
creativity
renewal
authenticity
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal transformation
- creative projects
- spiritual practice
- therapy
Key Concepts
existentialism
personal growth
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What part of yourself feels most authentic when renewed?
- How can you nurture this instinct daily?
A Different Perspective
Change can be frightening and may meet resistance from habitual patterns.
