The quote from Wallace Stegner's "Crossing to Safety" reflects on the pressures of achieving greatness and the expectations that accompany it. The speaker suggests that one need not be an extraordinary figure or "immortal" to lead a meaningful life. Instead, it posits that being a good, decent person is valuable in itself, even if it doesn't result in monumental impacts on the world.

This perspective encourages a sense of compassion and understanding among individuals, recognizing that not everyone can or should strive for greatness. It serves as a reminder to embrace ordinary lives and to be gentle with one another, as too much emphasis on achievement can lead to undue stress and disappointment. In a world that often celebrates the spectacular, it champions the quiet dignity of living simply and ethically.