Deep Quote by William James
““The turbulent billows of the fretful surface leave the deep parts of the ocean undisturbed; and to him who has a hold on vaster and more permanent realities, the hourly vicissitudes of his personal destiny seem relatively insignificant things. The really religious person is accordingly unshakable and full of equanimity, and calmly ready for any duty that the day may bring forth””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Varieties of Religious Experience by William James, 1902
The passage contrasts fleeting personal troubles with enduring, larger realities, suggesting true religious people remain steady and calm amid life's changes.
In simple terms: Deep realities make daily problems seem small; the faithful stay calm.
Cultivate steadiness and broader perspective.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily challenges
- crisis management
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you apply this calm to real‑world duties?
- What larger realities anchor you?
May ignore practical action by focusing too much on abstraction.