Ralph Waldo Emerson Quote Want in Life

"My chief want in life is someone who shall make me do what I can." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

About Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) was an American poet, essayist, and philosopher. He is widely noted for being the leading figure of the Transcendentalist movement. He was also known to greatly influence the then growing New Thought movement of the middle of the 19th century. He was also widely seen at the time as a champion of individualism and outspoken critic of the social issues of the time. Emerson was also considered as one of the greatest orators of the time. His essay “Nature,” which laid the foundation of Transcendentalism, was considered as the “Intellectual Declaration of Independence.”

Explanation

Everyone has his own capabilities, and everyone has a certain expectation for themselves. Of course, one would know his limitations and similarly, the things that he can do. However, other people, especially those who do not really know you, may expect something greater from you. While there is nothing wrong about it, wrong expectations may often lead to problems in the long run. Not only will it lead to disappointment from the one who expected more, but it may also lead to a break down to the one being pressured to do more. In the quote, Ralph Waldo Emerson said his main desire in life, maybe more than treasures and great successes, is someone who will recognize him for what he can do—someone who will see him as he is. In that way, he will be happier, for he’ll do not that what looks good for others, but what he can really do—what he really wants to do.