Meister Eckhart: 'When you are thwarted, it is your own attitude that is out of order.'

When you are thwarted, it is your own attitude that is out of order.

Summary:The quote by Meister Eckhart, "When you are thwarted, it is your own attitude that is out of order," encapsulates the idea that our attitude towards setbacks and challenges determines our ability to overcome them. It emphasizes personal responsibility for our reactions and suggests that by adjusting our attitude, we can navigate through obstacles more effectively.Introduction:Meister Eckhart, a 13th-century German philosopher and mystical theologian, offers profound wisdom in his quote about the correlation between our attitude and our ability to conquer obstacles. While the straightforward interpretation of this quote is significant in itself, we can dive deeper into the philosophical concept of determinism to shed light on unexpected dimensions of its meaning.Determinism, a philosophical notion that suggests all events, including human actions and choices, are predetermined and inevitable, might seem unrelated to Meister Eckhart's quote at first. However, exploring the interaction between determinism and personal attitude can reveal an intriguing perspective on human agency and resilience.Determinism vs. Personal Attitude:Determinism asserts that every event, including the outcomes of our actions, is determined by causal chains of events that precede it. From a deterministic standpoint, if we are thwarted in our endeavors, it is because the intricate web of causes and effects led to that outcome. In such a worldview, our attitude may seem inconsequential, as external factors govern the situations we encounter.However, Meister Eckhart's quote challenges this deterministic notion by placing the responsibility squarely on our attitude when faced with obstacles. It suggests that our attitude shapes our perception, response, and subsequent actions when confronted with setbacks. Rather than surrendering to a passive acceptance of determinism, Eckhart compels us to consider our attitude as a potent force that can change the trajectory of our lives.The Power of Attitude:Our attitude is the lens through which we view the world; it influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. When we confront setbacks, a negative attitude may lead us to feel defeated, frustrated, or victimized, making it harder to find constructive solutions and move forward. Conversely, a positive attitude allows us to maintain resilience, seek alternative paths, and learn from our experiences.Eckhart's emphasis on personal attitude aligns with the concept of free will, which proposes that individuals have the capacity to make choices independent of external influences. Our attitude represents an exercise of this free will - we have the power to shape our responses to life's challenges, regardless of the deterministic forces that may surround us.Embracing Responsibility:Acknowledging the influence of our attitude empowers us by reminding us that we are not mere victims of circumstance. It places the onus on us to cultivate a mindset that enables us to transcend obstacles and learn valuable lessons along the way. By taking responsibility for our attitude and responses, we become active participants in our lives, driving change and progress.However, it is important to recognize that attitude alone might not guarantee success or eliminate all barriers. Life's complexities sometimes present circumstances beyond our control. Nevertheless, by fostering a positive and resilient attitude, we equip ourselves with the strength and determination necessary to navigate those complexities with grace and resourcefulness.Conclusion:Meister Eckhart's quote, "When you are thwarted, it is your own attitude that is out of order," encapsulates a profound truth about the interplay between our attitude and our ability to overcome obstacles. While determinism might suggest that external factors solely determine outcomes, Eckhart challenges us to recognize the agency we possess through our attitude. By cultivating a positive and resilient mindset, we embrace responsibility for our reactions and enhance our capacity to navigate through life's challenges. Through this perspective, we realize that our attitude is not merely a passive response to determinism but a powerful tool that shapes our path towards personal growth, fulfillment, and triumph.