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"Aimer correctement c'est aimer ce qui est ordonné et beau de manière éduquée et disciplinée."

Plato
Plato Philosopher
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Quote meaning
Loving rightly involves appreciating and valuing order and beauty in a way that reflects a deep understanding and disciplined approach. It's not just about a fleeting attraction or superficial admiration; it’s about a cultivated, thoughtful love that comes from education and discipline.

Imagine this: You're at an art gallery, and you're standing in front of a painting by Vermeer. Now, anyone can look at it and say, "Wow, that's pretty." But to truly love it rightly, you'd need to know why it’s beautiful. You'd need to understand the artist’s use of light, the historical context, and the painstaking techniques used to create the piece. This understanding doesn’t just happen overnight. It comes from learning, from exposing yourself to art history and spending time appreciating different styles and periods.

Why is this important? Well, this idea has roots in ancient philosophy, notably in the works of Plato. He believed that true love goes beyond mere physical attraction or emotional highs—it involves a deep appreciation of the form and essence of what is good and beautiful. This kind of love leads to personal growth and a more profound connection with the world around you.

Let’s take a real-life example to bring this into focus. Consider a musician who has dedicated years to mastering the piano. They don’t just bang out tunes; they understand the structure of the pieces they play. They know the history behind the compositions, the nuances of the composers' intentions, and have the technical discipline to bring out every emotion embedded in the music. Their love for music isn’t just about enjoying a good melody—it's a well-rounded, deeply informed passion. When they play, their love for the music shines through in every note, creating a powerful experience for anyone who listens.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying what you love. Is it cooking, writing, gardening, or something else? Dive deep into it. Study the greats in that field. Learn the theories, understand the history, and practice relentlessly. Don't just scratch the surface. For instance, if you love cooking, don't just follow recipes. Learn about the ingredients, techniques, and cultural significance of the dishes. Watch documentaries, take classes, and experiment with your own creations. This disciplined approach will transform your love into something richer and more fulfilling.

To illustrate this further, let’s paint a picture. Imagine Sarah, an avid gardener. Initially, she just liked planting flowers for their colors and scents. But over time, she started reading about different plant species, soil types, and gardening techniques. She attended workshops, joined gardening clubs, and even took a botany course. Now, her garden is a masterpiece. Each plant is chosen and placed thoughtfully, considering the season, soil, and surrounding flora. Her love for gardening has evolved—it’s not just a hobby; it’s a well-informed passion. When Sarah walks through her garden, she sees more than just flowers. She sees the culmination of her learning and discipline, and that deep understanding brings her immense joy.

In the end, loving rightly is about more than just affection. It’s about a sincere, educated, and disciplined passion that enriches both the lover and the loved. So, whatever it is you love, dive deep and love it with all your understanding and discipline.
Related tags
Aesthetics Beauty Discipline Education Ethics Love Order Philosophy Wisdom
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