The issue is not simply one of needing to save the world, but also of needing to solve the problem of the loss of soul throughout the modern world. Part of what has been lost in the reckless rushing of modernity is the sense that each life has an authentic interior that shelters important emotions as well as inherent purpose, and that the dignity of existence includes a necessary instinct to unfold the unique story woven inside each living soul.
This quote offers a profound critique of contemporary life and a reflection on the spiritual and emotional deficits wrought by modernity's rapid pace. It highlights a pervasive problem: modern society does not merely face external challenges needing solutions but is also grappling with an internal loss—specifically, a loss of soul. This "loss of soul" metaphorically points to a diminishing connection to something deeply personal and vital within each individual, an internal repository of emotions and meaningful purpose.
The "reckless rushing of modernity" serves as a powerful image, describing how the speed and demands of contemporary life have led many to overlook or undervalue what really imbues life with dignity and uniqueness. The quote reminds us that every life holds an "authentic interior," a place of genuine feeling and purpose that deserves recognition and respect. Moreover, the idea that dignity includes an "instinct to unfold the unique story" acknowledges that our life stories are not generic or interchangeable but singular narratives that define our identity and value.
From my perspective, this reflection strikes at the heart of widespread existential struggles many encounter today: feelings of alienation, purposelessness, and emotional emptiness. It calls for a recalibration of our values—encouraging us not simply to strive for external success or global good but also to nurture and honor the interior life, fostering connection with the profound stories inside us all. This restoration of soul could pave the way for more meaningful living and renewed dignity on both personal and collective levels.