This quote suggests that our ultimate purpose or goal in life is not to be served by others, but to serve ourselves and those around us. It implies a shift from a self-centered perspective to one that values community and mutual support.
When Roosevelt says “our true destiny,” he is referring to the highest form of human achievement, which he believes lies not in being served, but in serving others. This idea challenges the traditional notions of success as accumulation of wealth or power over others. Rather, it emphasizes on personal growth thru helping others.
The phrase “to minister unto” means to attend to someone’s needs or take care of them. So when Roosevelt says our destiny is not “to be ministered unto,” he’s suggesting we should not rely on others for our needs or expect them to solve our problems for us. Instead, we should take responsibility for ourselves.
The second half of the quote – “but to minister to ourselves and our fellow men” – further emphasizes this point by suggesting that we should not only take care of ourselves but also extend this care towards other people.
in today’s world, this idea can be applied at both individual and societal levels. On an individual level, it encourages personal development through self-reliance and empathy towards others’ struggles; rather of expecting help from outside sources one must learn how manage their own issues while also extending help towards those who need it.
at a societal level, this statement could inspire communities and nations alike: rather than relying solely on government aid or international assistance (being “ministered unto”), societies can strive for self-sufficiency while also taking collective responsibility for their members’ well-being (ministering “to themselves”).
In essence, Franklin D Roosevelt’s quote promotes empowerment – both personally and socially – through service: serving oneself by becoming more self-reliant; serving others by contributing positively towards their lives; ultimately leading toward a more empathetic and self-sustaining world.
