The acorn becomes an oak by means of automatic growth; no commitment is necessary. The kitten similarly becomes a cat on the basis of instinct. Nature and being are identical in creatures like them. But a man or woman becomes fully human only by his or her choices and his or her commitment to them. People attain worth and dignity by the multitude of decisions they make from day by day. These decisions require courage.

Summary

This quote highlights the difference between the growth of living beings such as acorns and kittens, who naturally evolve into their full potential without conscious effort, and humans who must actively choose and commit to their own growth. Unlike other creatures, humans attain worth and dignity through the countless decisions they make in their lives. These choices require bravery and are vital to becoming fully human. The quote emphasizes the significance of personal agency and responsibility in shaping our own development and character.

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