Quote by C.S. Lewis

It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses, to remember that the dullest most uninteresting person you talk to may one day be a creature which,if you say it now, you would be strongly tempted to worship, or else a horror and a corruption such as you now meet, if at all, only in a nightmare. All day long we are, in some degree helping each other to one or the other of these destinations. It is in the light of these overwhelming possibilites, it is with the awe and the circumspection proper to them, that we should conduct all of our dealings with one another, all friendships, all loves, all play, all politics. There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. nations, cultures, arts, civilizations - These are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit - immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.

Summary

In this quote, C.S. Lewis highlights the profound significance and potential within every individual. He emphasizes that every person we encounter has the capability to either become a noble and admirable being or sink into a state of corruption and horror. Lewis remarks how, throughout the day, we play a role in guiding others towards one of these destinations through our actions and interactions. Thus, he urges us to treat every encounter with respect and awe, recognizing that none are ordinary, for we may unintentionally be engaging with someone of divine magnificence or eternal repulsion.