Abraham Lincoln: 'I do the very best I know how - the very best I can; and I mean to keep on doing so until the end.'

I do the very best I know how - the very best I can; and I mean to keep on doing so until the end.

In his timeless words, Abraham Lincoln said, "I do the very best I know how - the very best I can; and I mean to keep on doing so until the end." This quote summarily captures the essence of human perseverance, dedication, and self-improvement. Lincoln's commitment to giving his all in every endeavor, regardless of the challenges, serves as an exemplary model for success. It reminds us that true greatness lies not in achieving perfection, but in the relentless pursuit of doing our best, consistently striving to improve, and never losing sight of our goals. This quote, though straightforward, encompasses a profound philosophy that resonates deeply within us all.However, beyond the surface meaning of Lincoln's quote lies an unexpected and intriguing philosophical concept — the idea of "wabi-sabi." Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and the natural aging process. It teaches us to find contentment and appreciation in the flawed and the incomplete.At first glance, Lincoln's quote may seem to contradict the principles of wabi-sabi. After all, he stresses doing one's best and aiming for improvement, which implies a dissatisfaction with the current state. But upon closer examination, we realize that Lincoln's emphasis is not on achieving a flawless outcome, but on the relentless pursuit of personal growth and progress.In this context, Lincoln's quote and the wabi-sabi philosophy harmonize beautifully. They both acknowledge that perfection is an unattainable ideal, but that should never discourage us from putting forth our best efforts. Wabi-sabi recognizes the value of imperfections and celebrates the beauty that can be found within them, while Lincoln's quote encourages us to embrace our flaws and use them as motivation to keep striving for personal excellence.Applying this concept to our own lives, we can find solace in knowing that it is not necessary to be flawless or to achieve perfection in every endeavor. Instead, we should focus on the journey itself, on the process of continuous improvement. Just as nature's imperfections are what make it uniquely beautiful, our own imperfections and mistakes contribute to our growth and individuality.Imagine a world where everyone lived by Lincoln's quote and embraced the principles of wabi-sabi. We would no longer be bound by the fear of failure or the pressure to meet unrealistic standards. Instead, we would find fulfillment in simply doing our best, making progress, and appreciating the beauty that exists within our own imperfections.Moreover, Lincoln's quote reminds us that this commitment to always doing our best is a lifelong endeavor. It is not a one-time resolution or a fleeting motivation; it is a continued dedication to personal growth until the very end. Just as Lincoln did not rest on his laurels or become complacent, we too should never stop seeking improvement and striving for excellence, no matter our age or circumstances.In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln's quote encapsulates the timeless value of giving our best efforts in all that we do. It reinforces the importance of personal growth, perseverance, and the unwavering commitment to excellence. When paired with the wisdom of wabi-sabi, we are reminded to embrace our imperfections, find beauty in the flawed, and appreciate the journey rather than fixating solely on the destination. Together, these philosophies create a recipe for a fulfilling and purposeful life, driven by the desire to always do our very best, until the end.