“With the possible exception of the equator, everything begins somewhere.”
Image credits：Aronsyne,”Lewis, age 48″,CC BY-SA 4.0,C.S.-Lewis – C. S. Lewis – Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- November 29, 1898 – November 22, 1963
- Born in Ireland
- Writer, scholar
- Had a major influence on fantasy literature and religious thought through his many works, including the Chronicles of Narnia series and The Poetics of Christianity
Quote
“With the possible exception of the equator, everything begins somewhere.”
Explanation
In this lighthearted and somewhat philosophical quote, C. S. Lewis reflects on the idea that origins are an essential part of every process or journey. While the equator is a unique geographic concept that doesn’t have a “beginning” in the same way other things do (since it’s a continuous line around the Earth), Lewis points out that virtually everything else in life—whether a story, a project, or a personal journey—has a clear starting point. This observation invites us to think about beginnings in our own lives, reminding us that everything has an origin and that understanding where something begins helps us appreciate its growth or development. It also serves as a reminder that initiating something, even if it’s small or humble, is essential for any progress or achievement.
Historically, Lewis often discussed the importance of beginnings in both his philosophical and theological works. He emphasized the importance of starting well and the need to have a clear foundation for any pursuit, whether it was intellectual growth, personal transformation, or spiritual development. In his Christian writings, he frequently noted that the start of a spiritual journey—the moment of conversion or realization—is crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the path. The idea that everything “begins somewhere” echoes the biblical and philosophical principle that origins matter, and that the decisions we make at the start can have profound impacts on the direction and outcomes of our endeavors.
In the modern context, this quote can encourage reflection on personal beginnings, whether they are related to careers, relationships, or personal goals. It reminds us that even the smallest actions—like deciding to take on a new challenge or make a change in our life—can set us on a path that leads to growth, transformation, or achievement. The quote’s light tone encourages us to embrace beginnings without the fear of making mistakes or not knowing the full outcome, recognizing that every journey starts somewhere and that this starting point is crucial to the eventual success or fulfillment we hope to find.
