What does not satisfy when we find it, was not the thing we were desiring.
What did C. S. Lewis mean by:

What does not satisfy when we find it, was not the thing we were desiring.

This quote implies that if what we desire does not fulfill us once we obtain it, then perhaps it was not the actual thing we were desiring in the first place. It suggests a misjudgment or misunderstanding of our own desires and wants, indicating that our true satisfaction lies elsewhere.

In essence, Lewis is saying that sometimes we chase after things thinking they will bring us happiness or satisfaction. However, when we finally attain them and still find ourselves unsatisfied, this is an indication that what we thought was our desire wasn’t actually what our soul needed.

This idea can be applied in today’s world in various ways. For instance, people often chase materialistic goals – wealth, fame or social status – believing they will bring happiness. However, upon achieving these things they may still find themselves unfulfilled because their true desire might be something intangible like love, peace or personal growth.

In terms of personal development too this concept is very relevant. Often people set certain goals for themselves based on societal pressures or external influences without truly understanding their own desires and aspirations. They might strive to achieve a high-ranking job because society deems it successful but once they get there realize it doesn’t satisfy them as they had expected.

Therefore this quote encourages introspection and self-awareness to understand one’s true desires and needs rather than pursuing superficial goals which may not lead to genuine satisfaction or fulfillment.

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