The quote “All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain” is a profound statement that encapsulates the essence of philosophical wisdom. It suggests that the entirety of human wisdom and understanding can be distilled into these two actions: to sustain, which means to endure, maintain, or keep going, and to abstain, which means to refrain from, avoid, or resist.
“Sustain” in this context can be interpreted as the ability to endure hardships, to keep going despite difficulties, and to maintain one’s values, principles, and integrity even in the face of adversity. It implies resilience, perseverance, and a strong sense of self. It’s about holding on to what is good, valuable, and meaningful, even when it’s challenging.
On the other hand, “abstain” is about self-control and discipline. It’s about knowing when to say no, when to resist temptations, and when to avoid harmful or destructive behavior. It’s about making conscious choices, based on one’s values and principles, rather than being driven by impulses, desires, or external pressures.
Together, these two words encapsulate a philosophy of life that is about balance, wisdom, and conscious living. It’s about knowing when to hold on and when to let go, when to act and when to refrain from action, when to endure and when to resist.
In today’s world, this philosophy is more relevant than ever. In a society that often encourages instant gratification, over-consumption, and relentless pursuit of success, the wisdom of “sustain and abstain” can serve as a powerful counterpoint. It reminds us to practice resilience and perseverance, to stay true to our values even when it’s difficult, and to exercise self-control and discipline in the face of temptations and pressures.
In personal development, this philosophy can guide us in our journey towards self-improvement and growth. It can help us develop resilience, self-control, and a strong sense of self. It can teach us to balance our needs and desires with our values and principles, and to make conscious choices that align with our true selves. It can encourage us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to resist the allure of easy but ultimately unfulfilling paths. In short, it can help us live more consciously, wisely, and authentically.
