Quotes With Meaning
Saint Thomas Aquinas says, wisely, that the only way to drive out a bad passion is by a stronger good passion. The same is true of thoughts as of passions. When your mind wanders, like a child, your will must bring it back, like a mother. [. . .] The will-parent must discipline the mind-child, avoiding both the opposite extremes commonly made in disciplining either children or thoughts: tyranny or permissiveness.
Saint Thomas Aquinas says, wisely, that the only way to drive out a bad passion is by a stronger good passion. The same is true of thoughts as of passions. When your mind wanders, like a child, your will must bring it back, like a mother. [. . .] The will-parent must discipline the mind-child, avoiding both the opposite extremes commonly made in disciplining either children or thoughts: tyranny or permissiveness.
The quote emphasizes that overcoming negative emotions and distracting thoughts requires a stronger, positive focus. Just as bad passions can be driven away by stronger good ones, our wandering minds need to be guided back with intentional discipline. This process is likened to a parent guiding a child, where the will must exercise care and firmness without being too harsh or overly lenient. In everyday life, this means actively choosing to engage with constructive ideas and passions rather than allowing negative or chaotic thoughts to dominate. Balancing guidance and freedom is essential for personal growth and mental clarity. Ultimately, a well-disciplined mind leads to a more fulfilled and purposeful life.