"Cuanto más de sí mismo atribuye el hombre a Dios menos le queda en sí mismo"

When someone devotes a vast part of their identity or sense of self to an external force or deity, they tend to leave less of themselves for their own personal growth and development. This isn't just a concept for the religious or spiritual folks; it applies to anyone who places too much of their value or identity in something outside themselves.

Historically, this idea has roots in the writings of philosophers and theologians. Ludwig Feuerbach, a 19th-century philosopher, talked about how people project their best qualities onto their gods, thereby depriving themselves of those qualities. Imagine a person who sees kindness, wisdom, and strength as attributes solely of a deity. They might end up feeling that they themselves are lacking in these areas, simply because they've given away these qualities to an external being.

Let's take a real-life example. Consider a talented artist who always attributes their success to divine inspiration. Every stroke of the brush, every creative idea—they credit it all to a higher power. Over time, they might start to feel they’re merely a vessel, reducing their own sense of personal achievement. They might not even push their boundaries, thinking, “Well, if it’s meant to be, the inspiration will come.” This can stifle their growth, making them less likely to experiment or take risks, relying instead on an external source to guide their hand.

So, what’s the takeaway here? It’s about balance. Sure, it’s fine to find inspiration or comfort in something greater than yourself, be it a god, a cause, or even another person. But remember that you have the power and the qualities within you too. When you attribute too much of your success, talent, or worth to something outside yourself, you might end up undermining your own potential.

How can you apply this wisdom? Start by recognizing your own strengths. When you achieve something, take a moment to acknowledge your role in it. It’s not about being arrogant—it’s about being aware of your capabilities. If you’re someone who frequently attributes their success to an external force, try listing out the steps you took to get there. See your effort, your skills, your perseverance.

Picture this: Sarah is a dedicated teacher who believes her passion and patience stem from her spiritual beliefs. She prays before every class, believing that’s what gives her the strength to handle her students. One day, she faces a situation where her usual routine doesn’t help. Her students are rowdy, her lesson plan isn’t working, and she feels completely drained. In that moment, she has to dig deep and realize that her patience, her creativity in adapting the lesson, and her resilience come from within her. The divine inspiration was a spark, but she’s the one who’s kept the fire going.

In essence, it's about realizing that while external sources can be an inspiration, the qualities and strengths they inspire are inherently yours. You bring them to life. So next time you’re tempted to give away all the credit, remember—you’ve got more in you than you might think. Embrace it.