The quote “O heart the winds have shaken, the unappeasable host / Is comelier than candles at Mother Mary’s feet” evokes a sense of tumult and unrest within the heart, suggesting that it has been affected by external forces, represented metaphorically as winds. This turmoil is contrasted with a serene image of candles placed at Mother Mary’s feet, which symbolize devotion and tranquility.
The “unappeasable host” refers to an inner experience or collection of emotions and thoughts that cannot be easily satisfied or calmed. This suggests a deep complexity within the human experience—where one’s feelings may be tumultuous yet profound. The beauty found in this struggle is highlighted by stating that this chaotic inner world (“the unappeasable host”) holds greater value than traditional symbols of peace or piety (the candles).
In terms of personal development today, this quote can serve as a powerful reminder to embrace emotional turmoil rather than suppress it. Rather than seeking constant calmness or happiness (symbolized by the candles), individuals might find strength and authenticity in their struggles and complexities. It invites people to understand that feeling deeply—even if those feelings are painful—can lead to richer experiences and growth.
In practice, applying this idea could involve allowing oneself to fully experience a range of emotions without judgment. For instance, if someone feels anxious about their career path, instead of merely trying to achieve stability immediately (lighting figurative candles), they might explore those feelings more deeply: journaling about their fears or discussing them with trusted friends can provide valuable insights into what they truly want from life.
Moreover, recognizing that life’s challenges can contribute to one’s character can foster resilience. In today’s fast-paced world where social media often promotes curated perfection over authenticity, embracing our own “unappeasable host” allows for genuine connections with others who are experiencing similar struggles.
Ultimately, while peace is often idealized as an end goal in personal development journeys, there is beauty—and perhaps necessity—in acknowledging and working through chaos within ourselves. It’s through confronting these challenges that we find clarity regarding our values and desires—a process far richer than any tranquil moment could offer alone.
