Robert Herrick: 'Each must in virtue strive for to excel; That man lives twice that lives the first life well.'

Each must in virtue strive for to excel; That man lives twice that lives the first life well.

In his quote, 'Each must in virtue strive for to excel; That man lives twice that lives the first life well,' Robert Herrick encapsulates the significance of leading a virtuous life. At its core, the quote suggests that true fulfillment can only be achieved by striving for excellence in virtue. To live well, to truly live, is to embark on a journey of moral growth and seek to better oneself through ethical actions and choices. While this idea in itself is profound, let us venture beyond the straightforward interpretation and explore an unexpected philosophical concept – the notion of living multiple lives within a single existence.In many spiritual and philosophical traditions, the belief in reincarnation, the idea that an individual's soul is reborn into a new body after death, is an essential tenet. This belief suggests that we have the opportunity to live multiple lives, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Drawing a parallel to Herrick's quote, we can interpret 'That man lives twice' as a metaphorical acknowledgement of the concept of reincarnation. However, it is crucial to note that we are considering this idea as a metaphorical construct rather than a literal belief.When we examine the relationship between Herrick's quote and the concept of living multiple lives, we uncover an intriguing duality. On one hand, Herrick emphasizes the importance of living one's initial life well, suggesting that a person who leads a virtuous existence experiences a level of fulfillment akin to having lived twice. This interpretation aligns with the concept of reincarnation, where each subsequent life is believed to be shaped by the actions and choices made in the previous ones.However, by viewing the idea of living twice through a metaphorical lens, we also recognize the opportunity for personal growth and transformation within a single existence. Rather than waiting for different lifetimes to rectify past mistakes or pursue higher virtues, embracing the philosophy of 'living twice' within the constraints of one life offers a chance to continually improve and strive for excellence.Imagine each significant milestone, every major event, each period of personal growth or realization as a mini-life within the overarching span of your existence. By doing so, one can approach life with a renewed sense of purpose and intentionality. Just as in the concept of reincarnation, where individuals are said to be born into new lives with lessons to learn, challenges to overcome, and virtues to cultivate, we can apply this philosophy to our current lives.To live the first life well means engaging fully with the present, actively seeking opportunities for growth, and making conscious choices aligned with virtuous principles. It requires an ongoing commitment to improving oneself, fostering positive relationships, and contributing to the greater good of society. By viewing each phase of our existence as a new opportunity to learn, grow, and excel in virtue, we adopt a mindset of continuous improvement that develops resilience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of our place in the world.Ultimately, Herrick's quote encapsulates a profound truth that resonates with the core of our being. It urges us to strive for moral excellence, lead a virtuous life, and cultivate personal growth and transformation. By embracing the metaphorical concept of 'living twice,' we unlock the potential to embark on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, transcending the confines of a singular existence. So, let us pursue the path of virtue, excel in our moral endeavors, and in doing so, experience the richness of a life truly lived.