“If we commit ourselves to one person for life, this is not, as many people think, a rejection of freedom; rather, it demands the courage to move into all the risks of freedom, and the risk of love which is permanent; into that love which is not possession but participation.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Madeleine L'Engle, the author explores the idea of commitment in relationships and how it is often misunderstood as a loss of freedom. L'Engle suggests that committing to one person for life is not a rejection of freedom but instead requires courage to embrace the risks and uncertainties that come with true love.
By stating, "If we commit ourselves to one person for life, this is not, as many people think, a rejection of freedom,” L'Engle challenges the common perception that commitment limits individual freedom. Instead, she argues that true love requires individuals to fully engage in the risks and challenges of freedom, including the vulnerability that comes with giving oneself completely to another person.
Furthermore, L'Engle emphasizes the distinction between possession and participation in love. She suggests that true love is not about owning or controlling another person, but rather about actively engaging in a mutual relationship of give and take. Through this perspective, L'Engle encourages readers to embrace the courage needed to commit to a lifelong partnership based on love and respect.
Overall, L'Engle's quote challenges traditional notions of freedom and commitment in relationships, highlighting the depth and complexity of true love.
Embracing Commitment in a Modern World
In a society that values individualism and independence, the idea of committing to one person for life can be seen as outdated or restrictive. However, Madeleine L'Engle's words remind us that true commitment is not about giving up our freedom, but about embracing a different kind of freedom - the freedom to fully engage in a deep and meaningful relationship. By committing to another person, we are not losing ourselves, but rather expanding our capacity for love and connection. It takes courage to navigate the complexities of a long-term relationship, but the rewards of genuine partnership and shared experiences are immeasurable.
Embracing Commitment and Love
"If we commit ourselves to one person for life, this is not, as many people think, a rejection of freedom; rather, it demands the courage to move into all the risks of freedom, and the risk of love which is permanent; into that love which is not possession but participation." - Madeleine L'Engle.
Reflection Questions:
In this quote by Madeleine L'Engle, she explores the idea of commitment, freedom, and love. Reflect on the following questions to deepen your understanding of these concepts:
- What does commitment mean to you in the context of a long-term relationship?
- How does choosing to commit to one person impact your sense of freedom?
- In what ways can love be seen as a form of participation rather than possession?
- Have you experienced the risks associated with love and commitment? How have they shaped your understanding of these emotions?
- How can embracing the permanence of love lead to personal growth and fulfillment?
Similar quotes
“Because it is the nature of love to create, a marriage itself is something which has to be created, so that, together we become a new creature. To marry is the biggest risk in human relations that a person can take…If we commit ourselves to one person for life this is not, as many people think, a rejection of freedom; rather it demands the courage to move into all the risks of freedom, and the risk of love which is permanent; into that love which is not possession, but participation…It takes a lifetime to learn another person…When love is not possession, but participation, then it is part of that co-creation which is our human calling, and which implies such risk that it is often rejected.”
“Love consists of a commitment which limits one's freedom - it is a giving of the self, and to give oneself means just that: to limit one's freedom on behalf of another.”
“Once we succumb to the temptations of censoring ideas with which we disagree, we step onto a slippery slope where everyone's freedom is at risk.”
“People demand freedom of speech to make up for the freedom of thought which they avoid.”
“People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.”