This quote, “See yourself always as cause, and perhaps a better world will be found among your effects,” is a powerful statement about personal obligation and impact. It encourages us to view ourselves not as passive bystanders in life but as active participants who have the power to cause change.
The first part of the quote, “See yourself always as cause,” urges us to understand that our actions, words, and even thoughts can be the ’cause’ or catalyst for change. This means recognizing that we are not merely subject to external factors or circumstances but have the ability to shape our reality through our decisions and actions.
The second part of the quote suggests that if we see ourselves as causes, then “a better world will be found among your effects.” This implies that by taking responsibility for our actions—by being intentional about what we do—we can influence outcomes in positive ways. Our ‘effects’ here could mean anything from how we influence people around us to larger societal impacts.
Applying this concept today means acknowledging individual agency amidst global challenges like climate change or social inequality. Each person’s choices matter—from reducing waste and carbon footprint to standing against prejudice—and collectively lead towards a better world.
In terms of personal development, this idea encourages individuals to take charge of their lives instead of blaming external circumstances for failures or difficulties. By seeing oneself as a ’cause,’ one realizes they hold power over their life trajectory through their attitudes, choices, and actions.The resulting ‘effects,’ whether success or failure, are then seen not just as happenstance but largely due to one’s own doing—thus promoting self-accountability and growth.
