Great tranquility of heart is his who cares for neither praise nor blame

Great tranquility of heart is his who cares for neither praise nor blame

Thomas à Kempis was a German-Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period who is best known for his work "The Imitation of Christ." This spiritual classic has been widely read and revered for centuries for its profound insights into the Christian life and the pursuit of holiness. One of the key themes that Kempis explores in his writing is the importance of detachment from the opinions of others, particularly when it comes to praise and blame.

In the quote "Great tranquility of heart is his who cares for neither praise nor blame," Kempis is highlighting the idea that true peace and contentment come from within, rather than from external sources. When we are constantly seeking validation and approval from others, we are at the mercy of their opinions and judgments. This can lead to anxiety, insecurity, and a lack of inner peace. On the other hand, when we are able to detach ourselves from the need for praise and the fear of blame, we are free to live authentically and in alignment with our true values and beliefs.

Kempis believed that the key to achieving this inner tranquility was through a deep and abiding trust in God. By placing our trust in God rather than in the opinions of others, we are able to find true peace and contentment. This does not mean that we should disregard the feedback and input of others entirely, but rather that we should not allow it to dictate our sense of self-worth or our decisions.

In a world that is increasingly driven by social media and the constant need for validation and approval, Kempis' words are perhaps more relevant than ever. The pursuit of praise and the fear of blame can be all-consuming, leading us away from our true selves and our relationship with God. By cultivating a sense of detachment from these external influences, we are able to find a deeper sense of peace and contentment that is not dependent on the ever-changing opinions of others.