Robert Louis Stevenson: 'Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.'

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.

In the wise words of Robert Louis Stevenson, "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant." This quote encapsulates a profound lesson about the true value of our actions and experiences in life. Rather than evaluating our days solely on the immediate results or rewards we receive, Stevenson urges us to focus on the seeds we sow, the efforts we make, and the intentions we hold.At first glance, this quote seems like a straightforward reminder to not be solely fixated on outcomes. But let's dive a little deeper and explore an unexpected philosophical concept that will make this blog article more engaging and thought-provoking. Let's enter the realm of existentialism.Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes the importance of individual existence, personal freedom, and the responsibility each of us holds for our own actions and their consequences. It proposes that we create our own meaning in life through the choices we make and the way we live. By combining Stevenson's quote with existential thinking, we can further understand the significance of focusing on the seeds we plant rather than the harvest we reap.In the existentialist perspective, the seeds we plant represent the choices we make, the values we uphold, and the actions we take. These actions define who we are as individuals and contribute to the shaping of our existence. Instead of being preoccupied with what we achieve or accumulate, the existentialist sees the value in the process itself, in the journey that leads us to a particular outcome.When we focus solely on the harvest, we risk neglecting the intrinsic worth of our experiences and the personal growth and fulfillment that can be derived from them. The seeds we plant are the efforts we put into our relationships, our passions, and even our everyday interactions. It is these seeds that have the potential to enrich our lives with meaning, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment.But what about the harvest? Doesn't it matter at all? Well, the harvest undoubtedly has its importance too. It represents the culmination of our efforts and the tangible outcomes that we may achieve. However, by fixating solely on the harvest, we limit ourselves to evaluating our worth based on external validation or material gains, which can be fleeting and ever-changing. In contrast, focusing on the seeds acknowledges the significance of our intentions and actions, regardless of the immediate external rewards.By appreciating the importance of the seeds we plant, we become more attuned to the process, to the ongoing journey towards personal growth and self-discovery. We recognize that life is not just about accomplishing goals or reaping rewards but about finding fulfillment in the pursuit of our passions, the connections we forge, and the impact we have on the world around us.Moreover, Stevenson's quote encourages us to embrace a patient and long-term view of life. Planting seeds is an act of trust, requiring us to have faith in the process and believe in the potential outcomes that may take time to materialize. It reminds us that immediate results do not always reflect the true value of our efforts and that genuine growth often requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks.In conclusion, Robert Louis Stevenson's quote, "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant," holds profound wisdom and offers a valuable perspective on life. By focusing on the seeds we plant rather than the harvest we reap, we align ourselves with the existentialist philosophy of finding meaning in our choices, actions, and personal growth. This shift in perspective allows us to appreciate the journey, remain committed to our passions, and have faith in the long-term transformative power of our efforts. So, let us be mindful of the seeds we sow, for they hold the potential to shape our lives and the lives of those around us.