Corita Kent: 'Life is a succession of moments, to live each one is to succeed.'

Life is a succession of moments, to live each one is to succeed.

In the realm of profound wisdom, Corita Kent's quote, "Life is a succession of moments, to live each one is to succeed," encapsulates the essence of living a fulfilling life. Straightforwardly speaking, this quote emphasizes the significance of valuing every single moment and finding success in the present. It encourages us to embrace the fleeting nature of time and recognizes the inherent potential for accomplishment in each passing instant.To delve deeper into this concept, let us embark on a journey into the realms of an unexpected philosophical concept: existentialism. Existentialism, a school of thought that emerged in the 20th century, posits that individuals have the freedom and responsibility to define their existence. By introducing existentialism into the discussion of Corita Kent's quote, we can explore the contrasts and similarities between the two perspectives, thus infusing intrigue into our exploration.At first glance, the straightforward interpretation of Kent's quote aligns with the core principles of existentialism. Both emphasize the importance of seizing the present moment and finding purpose in one's actions. Kent's assertion that living each moment is to succeed resonates with existentialism's idea that individuals can create meaning in their lives by actively engaging with the world around them. Simply put, both perspectives advocate for an active and intentional approach to life.However, a distinction arises when we consider existentialism's emphasis on individual autonomy and agency in defining one's existence. Existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre argue that a meaningful life requires conscious decision-making and taking responsibility for those choices. This notion diverges slightly from Kent's quote, which may be interpreted as embracing the idea that success lies in living fully in each passing moment, rather than explicitly focusing on intentional decision-making.Yet, in examining the two perspectives more closely, we find an underlying harmony. While existentialism highlights the importance of making deliberate choices, it also acknowledges the uncertain and unpredictable nature of existence. In this sense, Corita Kent's quote aligns with existentialism by emphasizing the act of fully engaging with each moment, regardless of the decisions we make or the outcomes we face. It encourages us to find beauty, growth, and fulfillment in the simple act of being present.Ultimately, when contemplating Kent's quote in the context of existentialism, we discover an intriguing interplay between intentional action and surrendering to the flow of life. By embracing the present moment and actively participating in it, we can create our own success, while also acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of life.As we reflect upon the profound wisdom embedded within Corita Kent's quote, we come to realize the power of living consciously and authentically in each moment. Whether through the lens of straightforward interpretation or the lens of existentialism, the message remains clear: life's success lies not in an accumulation of accolades or achievements, but in our ability to fully immerse ourselves in the ever-changing tapestry of moments that make up our existence. So, let us cherish each passing second, for in living each moment, we truly succeed in the art of life.