Yes. This. Entirely, wholly this.
In case you’re experiencing problems with the graphic, it’s a quote attributed to Neil deGrasse Tyson:
I am driven by two main philosophies: know more about the world than I knew yesterday, and lessen the suffering of others. You’d be surprised how far that gets you.
Have you done both of these things today?
If not, get cracking. See where it takes you.
(nabbed from Atheism Resource)
If we all did that on a daily basis the world would be a much better place–hell I might not have feel the need to continue blogging if we all went down that road… I am a fan of Tyson’s. In that quote he really sums things up nicely. I had not read it before. Thanks for posting it.
Every time I see that quote, I have the same reaction: “hell yes!”
I’ve been thinking about this a great deal since you posted it, mulling over what it really means for daily life. Part 1 is easy, there’s always something new and exciting to learn. But Part 2? Some cases are clear cut, where you find an opportunity to alleviate suffering and you do it. But there is a lot of room for muddiness. Does loving someone count? How about teaching? What about just going about life joyfully so that you cheer others around you? How do you feel like you go about fulfilling Part 2? Do you need to engage in active charitable acts on a daily basis to feel like you have met that goal?