Wouldst thou shut up the avenues of ill, pay every debt as if God wrote the bill

Wouldst thou shut up the avenues of ill, pay every debt as if God wrote the bill

Ralph Waldo Emerson, a renowned American essayist, lecturer, and poet, was known for his profound insights into human nature and spirituality. One of his most famous quotes, "Wouldst thou shut up the avenues of ill, pay every debt as if God wrote the bill," encapsulates his belief in the importance of personal responsibility and moral integrity.

In this quote, Emerson is urging individuals to take control of their actions and live a life of virtue and righteousness. By shutting up the avenues of ill, he is advising people to avoid engaging in harmful or immoral behavior that can lead to negative consequences. This could include actions such as lying, cheating, or harming others. By paying every debt as if God wrote the bill, Emerson is emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's obligations and responsibilities with honesty and integrity. He is suggesting that we should treat every debt, whether financial or moral, as a sacred duty that must be honored.

Emerson's words are a reminder that our actions have consequences and that we must take responsibility for them. By living a life of virtue and integrity, we can avoid the pitfalls of ill and create a more harmonious and fulfilling existence. When we act with honesty and integrity, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the greater good of society.

Emerson's philosophy is deeply rooted in transcendentalism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes the importance of individualism, self-reliance, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. By following his advice to shut up the avenues of ill and pay every debt as if God wrote the bill, we can align ourselves with the natural order of the universe and live in harmony with our true selves.