[This quote profoundly emphasizes the fundamental role of human agency and perception in the creation of meaning and value. It suggests that moral and existential significance are not intrinsic to objects or events but are instead bestowed upon them by human beings. The act of esteeming—valuing, appreciating, or recognizing worth—is presented as the defining trait of humanity, a creative force that grants importance where none may inherently exist. In a world where values are not handed down from divine sources or predetermined, humans become the architects of meaning, shaping their reality through conscious judgment and appraisal. This perspective invites reflection on our responsibilities as creators of value within our lives and societies, emphasizing the power and importance of our subjective choices and perspectives. It challenges the notion of inherent moral truths and encourages active participation in defining what is good, evil, meaningful, or worthwhile. Such a view can inspire individuals to recognize their agency in constructing their identities and purposes, urging us to be mindful — as creators of our own destiny and values — and to appreciate the profound impact of our capacity to esteem. Ultimately, this quote elevates the act of appreciation and valuation to a creative act, highlighting its importance as the core of human existence, and reminding us that without this act of creation, life’s deepest contents would lack substance and significance.