Mahatma Gandhi: 'Infinite striving to be the best is man's duty it is its own reward. Everything else is in God's hands.'

Infinite striving to be the best is man's duty it is its own reward. Everything else is in God's hands.

The quote by Mahatma Gandhi, "Infinite striving to be the best is man's duty; it is its own reward. Everything else is in God's hands," encapsulates the idea that our actions and efforts to excel in life are of utmost importance, while the outcomes and external rewards lie beyond our control. At first glance, this quote may seem straightforward and motivational, emphasizing the value of personal growth and self-improvement. However, let's delve deeper into its meaning and explore an unexpected philosophical concept - the concept of detachment.Gandhi's words emphasize the significance of continuous self-improvement as a fundamental duty of mankind. He argues that through persistent and infinite striving, we can reach our full potential and become the best version of ourselves. This striving not only encompasses professional success but also personal growth, moral development, and spiritual enlightenment. By continuously aiming for excellence, we actively participate in the betterment of ourselves and society.Gandhi's idea of considering striving as its own reward holds profound implications. It suggests that the true value lies in the process of growth and self-improvement, rather than becoming fixated on external recognition or rewards. When we solely focus on external outcomes, we risk becoming attached to the results and losing sight of the intrinsic satisfaction derived from our efforts. By perceiving the pursuit of excellence as its own reward, we find fulfillment and purpose in our actions.Now, let's introduce the concept of detachment. Detachment, in a philosophical sense, refers to maintaining a sense of inner calm and detachment from the outcomes or results of our actions. It involves relinquishing the desire for specific outcomes, realizing that external circumstances are beyond our control. This concept might initially seem contradictory to Gandhi's emphasis on striving to be the best, but it provides an interesting contrast for reflection.While Gandhi's quote emphasizes the importance of striving, detachment reminds us to find a balance between passionate pursuit and accepting the uncertainty of the results. By striving without becoming wholly attached to the outcome, we cultivate a mindset that is focused on the process rather than the end result. This detachment allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the journey of self-improvement, valuing the lessons learned along the way, rather than fixating on achieving a particular outcome.Incorporating the concept of detachment into Gandhi's quote brings an unexpected depth to its meaning. It encourages us to let go of the need for external validation and to find contentment within ourselves. By practicing detachment, we embrace the philosophy of fully investing ourselves in the present moment, passionately pursuing our goals while acknowledging that the fruits of our labor are ultimately in God's hands.To conclude, Mahatma Gandhi's quote captures the essential idea that continuous striving to be the best version of ourselves is a fundamental duty. It emphasizes the intrinsic value of growth and self-improvement. However, by introducing the concept of detachment, we gain a new perspective and insight into the quote's deeper meaning. Through finding a balance between passionate pursuit and letting go of specific outcomes, we can fully immerse ourselves in the process of self-improvement and find fulfillment in the journey itself, leaving the results to a higher power. Ultimately, Gandhi's words inspire us to embrace personal growth while surrendering our attachment to the external rewards of our efforts.