“It might be a good idea if, like the White Queen, we practiced believing six impossible things every morning before breakfast, for we are called on to believe what to many people is impossible. Instead of rejoicing in this glorious "impossible" which gives meaning and dignity to our lives, we try to domesticate God, to make his might actions comprehensible to our finite minds.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Madeleine L'Engle, the author suggests that individuals should embrace the idea of believing in impossible things, similar to the White Queen in Lewis Carroll's "Through the Looking-Glass." L'Engle argues that by embracing the concept of the impossible, we can find meaning and dignity in our lives. This challenges the notion of trying to rationalize or comprehend everything, particularly in relation to the divine or spiritual aspects of life.
L'Engle's words encourage readers to embrace mystery and recognize the limitations of our understanding, suggesting that there is value in accepting the impossible rather than attempting to make it fit within our limited perceptions. This can be seen as a call to embrace faith and open-mindedness in the face of the unknown, rather than seeking to make everything fit neatly within the confines of our comprehension.
Embracing the Impossible
In today's fast-paced and often chaotic world, Madeleine L'Engle's words about believing in the impossible hold more relevance than ever. As society continues to strive for understanding and control over every aspect of life, L'Engle reminds us of the beauty and mystery that lies in embracing the unknown and the impossible.
Madeleine L'Engle on Believing Impossible Things
"It might be a good idea if, like the White Queen, we practiced believing six impossible things every morning before breakfast, for we are called on to believe what to many people is impossible. Instead of rejoicing in this glorious "impossible" which gives meaning and dignity to our lives, we try to domesticate God, to make his mighty actions comprehensible to our finite minds.” - Madeleine L'Engle"
Reflection Questions
As we reflect on the quote by Madeleine L'Engle, we are challenged to consider the concept of believing in the impossible and embracing the mystery and wonder of life. Here are some questions to ponder and contemplate:
- What are some "impossible things" that you struggle to believe in or accept in your life?
- How can practicing belief in the impossible bring meaning and dignity to your life?
- In what ways do you try to make God's actions more comprehensible and how does this limit your understanding of His power?
- How can you embrace the mystery and wonder of life without trying to domesticate it or make it fit into your finite understanding?
- What steps can you take to cultivate a mindset of belief in the impossible, and how might this enhance your spiritual journey?
Similar quotes
“Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
“Alice laughed. 'There's no use trying,' she said. 'One can't believe impossible things.'I daresay you haven't had much practice,' said the Queen. 'When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast. There goes the shawl again!”
“I can’t believe THAT!” said Alice.Can’t you?” said the Queen in a pitying tone. “Try again: draw a long breath, and shut your eyes.”Alice laughed. “There’s no use trying,” she said, “one can’t believe impossible things.”I daresay you haven’t had much practice,” said the Queen. “When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why sometimes I believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast!”
“Sometimes I've believed more than six impossible things before breakfast.”
“The best fiction is often how we interpret our own lives and what we see as our common due. It is created usually as a means of avoiding reality which, if seriously considered, might negate our ability to strive for what might seem impossible.”