Humanity cherishes its swaddling clothes; but it shall not grow up unless it can free itself from them. Turning down his mother's breast does not make the weaned child ungrateful. ... Rise up naked, valiant; make the sheaths crack; push aside the stakes; to grow straight you need no more than the thrust of your sap and the call of the sun.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of personal growth and breaking free from comfort zones in order for humanity to progress. It suggests that while we may cherish and rely on familiar habits or routines, we must be willing to outgrow them to truly flourish. The analogy of a weaned child no longer relying on their mother's breast emphasizes that independence and advancement should not be seen as ingratitude, but rather as a necessary step towards developing strength and resilience. The quote encourages individuals to shed their protective layers, embrace vulnerability, and seek the nurturing power of growth and sunlight for self-improvement.

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