This quote suggests that the act of fasting, or any form of self-denial, is meaningless unless it is paired with a continuous desire for self-control. In other words, without the intent to discipline oneself and manage one’s desires or impulses, mere abstention from food or any other pleasure does not hold much value.
Fasting here can be seen as a metaphor for all kinds of abstinence. The focus isn’t on the act itself but rather on the mindset behind it – a constant yearning for self-restraint. It implies that true growth and development come from this incessant longing to control our urges and not merely from outward actions like fasting.
Applying this idea to today’s world or personal development could mean focusing more on building inner strength and discipline rather than simply engaging in acts of deprivation. For instance, someone might decide to quit smoking. But unless they cultivate an ongoing desire for self-control, they might easily give in to temptation again.
In terms of personal development, cultivating this ‘incessant longing for self-restraint’ could lead to improved willpower and better decision-making skills because you’re training your mind to resist immediate gratification in favor of long-term benefits.
In today’s fast-paced world where instant gratification is often prioritized over long-term satisfaction, Gandhi’s wisdom serves as a reminder: true change comes from within; external actions are secondary. Whether it’s resisting unhealthy food habits or refraining from harmful behaviors like excessive use of social media or procrastination – what matters most is not just these acts but nurturing an enduring willpower that makes such restraint possible consistently.
So instead of focusing solely on specific goals (like losing weight by dieting), we should aim at developing a continual desire for discipline which would help us achieve those goals while also improving our overall character and resilience against future challenges.