Meaning:
The quote "Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither." is attributed to C.S. Lewis, who was a renowned British writer and theologian. This quote encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of human aspiration and the pursuit of goals.
In this quote, Lewis is suggesting that by aiming for higher, more noble goals (symbolized by "heaven"), individuals can attain not only those higher goals but also the more mundane, earthly achievements ("earth thrown in"). On the other hand, if one only focuses on earthly, materialistic pursuits, they may end up with nothing at all.
This quote reflects an important philosophical and motivational concept that has been echoed in various forms throughout history. It encourages individuals to set their sights on lofty ideals, moral principles, and spiritual fulfillment, rather than being solely preoccupied with material success or immediate gratification.
The notion of aiming at "heaven" can be interpreted in different ways, depending on one's religious or spiritual beliefs. For some, it may refer to striving for virtues such as kindness, compassion, and selflessness. For others, it may signify the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, inner peace, or a deeper connection with a higher power.
By emphasizing the importance of aiming at "heaven," Lewis is highlighting the transformative power of having a higher purpose or a transcendent goal. When individuals orient their lives towards something greater than themselves, whether it be a moral ideal, a spiritual calling, or a selfless mission, they often find that their earthly pursuits fall into place as well.
In a broader sense, this quote can also be seen as a reflection of the principle of intentionality and the law of attraction. It suggests that the direction of our aspirations and the quality of our desires have a significant impact on the outcomes we experience in life. When we focus on noble and elevated aims, we tend to attract positive opportunities and experiences, including the more tangible rewards of earthly success.
Conversely, if our focus is solely on material gain, status, or self-centered desires, we may find ourselves feeling unfulfilled, disconnected, and ultimately deprived of both spiritual and material abundance.
The wisdom of this quote extends beyond individual aspirations to encompass societal and cultural values. It underscores the importance of a collective pursuit of higher ideals and ethical principles, as opposed to a narrow fixation on material progress and individual gain. In a world where consumerism, competition, and self-interest often dominate, the reminder to "aim at heaven" serves as a powerful call to reevaluate our priorities and seek a more meaningful and harmonious way of living.
In conclusion, C.S. Lewis's quote "Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither" encapsulates a timeless and universal truth about the nature of human aspiration and the pursuit of goals. It encourages individuals to orient their lives towards higher, noble ideals and spiritual fulfillment, recognizing that in doing so, the rewards of earthly success will naturally follow. This quote serves as a reminder of the transformative power of intentionality, the law of attraction, and the importance of aligning our aspirations with principles that transcend material gains.