“The more often he feels without acting, the less he will be able ever to act, and, in the long run, the less he will be able to feel.”
Analysis of C.S. Lewis Quote
In this quote by C.S. Lewis, the author explores the concept of inaction leading to a decrease in both the ability to act and to feel. This notion highlights the interconnectedness of emotions and actions in shaping an individual's capability to engage with the world around them. Let's dive deeper into the meaning behind this quote.
Lewis suggests that the more one suppresses their feelings without taking action, the more they inhibit their ability to act upon those feelings in the future. This can be interpreted as a warning against allowing emotions to stagnate within oneself without finding healthy outlets for expression. By bottling up emotions and failing to act on them, individuals may find themselves increasingly numb or disconnected from their own emotions, leading to a diminished capacity to respond effectively to their inner world and external circumstances. The quote underscores the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions in order to maintain a sense of emotional vitality and agency in one's life.
Modern Relevance
In today's fast-paced society, C.S. Lewis's quote holds significant relevance in highlighting the importance of taking action on our emotions. With the prevalence of distractions and the constant busyness of life, it is crucial to acknowledge our feelings and not let them go unaddressed. Otherwise, we risk becoming desensitized and disconnected from our emotions, ultimately hindering our ability to truly engage with the world around us.
C.S. Lewis on the Importance of Acting on One's Emotions
"The more often he feels without acting, the less he will be able ever to act, and, in the long run, the less he will be able to feel.” - C.S. Lewis"
This quote by C.S. Lewis highlights the importance of not only feeling our emotions but also taking action based on those feelings. Lewis suggests that inaction can lead to a diminishing ability to both feel and act upon our emotions.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on the quote by C.S. Lewis, consider the relationship between feeling and acting in one's life. How does suppressing emotions impact one's ability to take action? In what ways might allowing oneself to feel deeply aid in making decisions and taking meaningful steps forward? How can we strike a balance between feeling and acting in order to live a fulfilling and authentic life?
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