The idle man does not know what it is to enjoy rest, for he has not earned it

The idle man does not know what it is to enjoy rest, for he has not earned it

John Lubbock, a British banker, politician, and naturalist, was a firm believer in the value of hard work and the importance of earning one's rest. He believed that idleness was not only unproductive but also detrimental to one's well-being. In his book "The Use of Life," Lubbock famously wrote, "The idle man does not know what it is to enjoy rest, for he has not earned it."

Lubbock's words ring true even today, as we live in a society that often glorifies busyness and productivity. Many people find it difficult to truly relax and enjoy their leisure time because they feel guilty for not being constantly busy or productive. However, Lubbock would argue that true rest can only be enjoyed when it is earned through hard work and effort.

Lubbock believed that work was not just a means to an end, but a fundamental part of human nature. He saw work as a way to fulfill one's potential, develop skills, and contribute to society. In his view, idleness was not only a waste of time but also a missed opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment.

For Lubbock, earning rest through hard work was not just about physical labor, but also about mental and emotional effort. He believed that true rest could only be achieved when one had exerted themselves to the fullest extent, whether that be through physical labor, intellectual pursuits, or emotional challenges.