To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires by your fortune, and not your fortune by your desires

To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires by your fortune, and not your fortune by your desires

Jeremy Taylor, a 17th-century Anglican bishop and theologian, is known for his profound insights on spirituality and the human condition. One of his most famous quotes, “To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires by your fortune, and not your fortune by your desires,” encapsulates his belief in the importance of finding inner peace and contentment through aligning one’s desires with their circumstances.

In today’s fast-paced and materialistic world, it is easy to fall into the trap of constantly wanting more and comparing ourselves to others. We often measure our success and happiness based on external factors such as wealth, status, and possessions. However, Taylor’s wisdom reminds us that true contentment comes from within and is not dependent on external circumstances.

By measuring our desires by our fortune, we are able to cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for what we already have. Instead of constantly chasing after more wealth, power, or success, we learn to be content with our current situation and find joy in the simple things in life. This shift in perspective allows us to break free from the cycle of endless striving and dissatisfaction, and instead focus on cultivating a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.

On the other hand, when we measure our fortune by our desires, we are setting ourselves up for disappointment and discontent. We become trapped in a never-ending cycle of wanting more and never feeling satisfied with what we have. This constant craving for more can lead to feelings of envy, greed, and unhappiness, as we are always comparing ourselves to others and feeling like we never have enough.