Thomas Merton: 'Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace and your soul in the joy of Christ.'

Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace and your soul in the joy of Christ.

Thomas Merton once said, "Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace, and your soul in the joy of Christ." This quote conveys a straightforward yet profound message about living a virtuous life while maintaining mindfulness and spiritual connection. Merton's words serve as a reminder to prioritize goodness, awareness, tranquility, and spiritual fulfillment in our daily existence. Each aspect mentioned in the quote holds immense significance on its own, but when combined, they offer a comprehensive guide to living a purposeful and meaningful life.To better understand the essence of Merton's quote, let us break down its components. "Be good" serves as a fundamental instruction, urging us to cultivate moral values and extend kindness and compassion towards others. It emphasizes the importance of virtuous actions and the impact they can have on our own well-being and the world around us.The notion of "keeping your feet dry" can be interpreted metaphorically. It advises us to tread carefully in our journeys, making decisions wisely, and taking thoughtful steps towards our goals. This concept urges us to be mindful of our choices and actions, as they shape the path we walk upon and influence the outcomes we encounter.Furthermore, "keeping your eyes open" encourages us to be curious, observant, and present in the world. It reminds us not to allow life's distractions to hinder our ability to notice the beauty, wisdom, and opportunities that exist around us. By remaining awake and attentive, we can engage more fully with the richness of life and continuously learn and grow from our experiences.The phrase "keeping your heart at peace" speaks to the significance of cultivating inner tranquility, despite the inevitable challenges and turmoil we may encounter. It reminds us that true peace comes from within, and it is our responsibility to nurture and protect it. By doing so, we can navigate life's ups and downs with grace and clarity, thereby creating a ripple effect of peace that extends to our interactions with others.Finally, the mention of keeping "your soul in the joy of Christ" signifies the importance of spiritual connection and the profound joy that can be found in embracing one's faith. This does not necessarily imply a specific religious belief; rather, it encourages us to nurture our spiritual identity, whatever that may entail. By nurturing our souls and finding joy in our spiritual practices, we deepen our sense of purpose and find solace amidst life's challenges.While the straightforward interpretation of Merton's quote captures the essence of his message, it becomes even more intriguing when we introduce the concept of existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophical school of thought that explores the meaning and purpose of human existence. It prompts us to confront the complexities of life, question the nature of our existence, and embrace the freedom and responsibility that comes with it.When we compare Merton's quote to existentialist principles, we can identify some shared elements. Both emphasize the significance of individual choice, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of meaning and authenticity. Merton's call to "be good" aligns with the existentialist idea that our actions and choices define us. Similarly, the encouragement to "keep your eyes open" resonates with the existentialist focus on individual consciousness and self-awareness.However, the significant difference lies in the spiritual aspect found in Merton's quote. Existentialism generally addresses the search for meaning in a secular context, detached from religious beliefs. Merton's reference to keeping "your soul in the joy of Christ" introduces a spiritual dimension that may not necessarily harmonize with existentialist views. Nevertheless, this difference serves as an opportunity for reflection and the exploration of diverse perspectives within the realm of existentialism.In conclusion, Thomas Merton's quote encapsulates a profound message about living a fulfilling and purposeful life. By being good, staying mindful, cultivating tranquility, and nurturing our spiritual connection, we can lead lives that are true to ourselves and positively impact the world around us. This quote holds a universal significance that transcends religious boundaries, inviting individuals of various beliefs to ponder its wisdom. Moreover, juxtaposing Merton's message with the philosophical concept of existentialism broadens our understanding and invites us to engage in deeper contemplation about the nature of our choices, existence, and the pursuit of meaning.