Mindful Moment 20240104

Francois Coetzee
2 min readJan 4, 2024

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Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.
- Martin Luther

Photo by Alena Koval

Martin Luther’s words profoundly express hope, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to positive action, regardless of uncertain futures. This statement captures the essence of an optimistic and proactive approach to life, emphasizing the importance of continuing our efforts and contributions, even in the face of potential adversity or failure.

Planting an apple tree symbolizes nurturing, growth, and investment in the future. Even with the knowledge of impending doom, his determination to plant the tree speaks to a deeper philosophy of life: the value of doing good and meaningful work, irrespective of the outcome. It’s a reminder that our actions carry intrinsic worth and significance, even when their benefits or consequences may not be immediately apparent or guaranteed.

This quote also embodies an enduring spirit of hope. Hope is not merely wishful thinking but a powerful motivator for action. It encourages us to keep moving forward, creating, and contributing, even when the future seems uncertain or bleak. By planting the apple tree, Luther believes in the potential for growth and renewal, a testament to the enduring human spirit that strives and hopes for a better tomorrow.

Moreover, his words inspire us to focus on what we can control—our actions and attitudes. While we cannot predict or control the future, we can choose how we respond to the present moment. Planting the apple tree becomes a metaphor for taking positive steps, making meaningful choices, and leaving a legacy, regardless of the uncertainties that lie ahead.

Incorporating this wisdom into our lives involves recognizing the value of our actions in the here and now. It’s about making the most of the present, contributing positively to our communities and the world, and nurturing projects or relationships that might bear fruit in the future. It’s also about maintaining a hopeful outlook and believing in the potential of our efforts to make a difference, even in small ways.

These words are a powerful call to action and a beacon of hope. It teaches us the importance of perseverance, the value of positive actions, and the power of hope in the face of uncertainty. By metaphorically planting our apple trees, we affirm our commitment to making a positive impact, nurturing growth, and holding onto hope, no matter the future.

Martin Luther was a German theologian and religious reformer who initiated the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.

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Francois Coetzee
Francois Coetzee

Written by Francois Coetzee

Francois Coetzee is a creative thinker, NLP trainer and coach, and lives for creating possibility. Connect with him on LinkedIn https://bit.ly/3hEmVAn

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