Thomas Paine: 'What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value.'

What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value.

The quote by Thomas Paine, "What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value," carries a profound message about the significance of value in our lives. Essentially, this quote highlights the idea that when something comes easily or at a low cost, we tend to undervalue it, while it is the rarity or costliness of something that truly makes us appreciate and treasure it. This concept can be applied not only to material possessions but also to relationships, achievements, and experiences.In our modern society, where convenience and instant gratification are highly valued, it is easy to overlook the importance of true appreciation and the worth of things. How often do we take for granted the abundance of resources and opportunities at our disposal? When something is readily available or easily accessible, we tend to overlook the effort, time, and resources that were invested in its production. We fail to recognize the value that scarcity or high cost can bring forth.On a deeper level, Paine's quote alludes to an intriguing philosophical concept known as existentialism. Existentialism posits that the meaning and value of life are not intrinsic, but rather dependent on personal experience and reflection. It challenges us to consider whether there is an inherent, universal meaning to life, or if we derive meaning solely through our own subjective experiences.Drawing on this philosophical perspective, we can further explore the relationship between value and cost in our lives. When we obtain something too easily or without effort, it often fails to provide us with a sense of fulfillment or purpose. This could be because we haven't invested ourselves fully in the process or because we are unable to recognize the value hidden within the simplicity. Conversely, when we struggle, strive, or sacrifice to achieve something, we come to appreciate its true worth and derive a greater sense of satisfaction from the accomplishment.This juxtaposition of easily obtained versus dearly acquired possessions, relationships, achievements, and experiences raises important questions about our perspectives and priorities. Are we too quick to dismiss or overlook the simplicity and ease that life sometimes offers? Are we only able to assign value to things that are challenging, scarce, or costly? Or can we find a balance between recognizing the worth of both?To truly appreciate the value of something, it may be necessary to challenge our preconceived notions and redefine our understanding of what constitutes value. It is possible to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for the seemingly mundane or effortless aspects of life. By doing so, we can develop a more holistic view of value that encompasses both the accessible and the extraordinary.In conclusion, Thomas Paine's quote reminds us that what we easily obtain may be undervalued, while the rarity, effort, or costliness of something brings its true worth to light. By embracing the philosophical concept of existentialism and reflecting on how value is derived in our lives, we can strive to strike a balance between appreciating the simplicity in life and recognizing the significance of our endeavors. Let us not take for granted the things that come easily, and instead, learn to find value in all aspects of our existence.