“There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting.”
- 7th century BC to 5th century BC
- Indian
- Religious leader, thinker
- Founded Buddhism, taught people the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which showed the causes of suffering and how to resolve them, and spread the path of training aimed at inner liberation and enlightenment.
Quote
“There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting.”
Explanation
This quote emphasizes the importance of both commitment and initiative in the pursuit of truth. It suggests that the two biggest obstacles to finding the truth are failure to begin the journey and giving up before reaching the end. The search for truth requires dedication and a willingness to confront challenges, but also the courage to start the journey in the first place. If we don’t make the decision to take the first step or if we abandon the path halfway, we prevent ourselves from experiencing the full clarity and wisdom that truth can bring.
In modern life, this message encourages action and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, or personal growth. Many people may feel overwhelmed by the idea of making significant changes or confronting deep truths, but this quote reminds us that the only way to make progress is to start, and to stay committed until we reach understanding. For example, someone seeking personal development or enlightenment must begin the journey by learning, reflecting, and practicing, even when obstacles arise. The key is to not abandon the process.
Historically, Buddha’s teachings align with the idea that the search for truth requires both determination and discipline. Buddha himself embarked on a long journey of meditation and self-discovery, and his message to his followers was to diligently pursue wisdom without distraction or early abandonment. The road to truth, according to Buddha, involves continuous effort, overcoming doubts, and not being deterred by setbacks. Only by fully committing to the path can one uncover the truths that lead to enlightenment and freedom.
