What does each of the following quotations mean to you? (a) “Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later.” – Swami Vivekananda (b) “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves.” – Dalai Lama (c) “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, it is better for us all.” – Erik Erikson

Vivekananda — perseverance

The quote means that every worthwhile achievement demands sustained effort through repeated failure; success is not denied to anyone, only delayed until persistence outlasts obstacles. For a civil servant, it counsels grit in tackling entrenched problems — an officer clearing pending welfare files or fighting local mafias must expect setbacks, yet steady resolve eventually yields results, as seen in campaigns like the eradication of guinea-worm or open-defecation-free drives.

Dalai Lama — inner peace

Peace in society is impossible while individuals carry inner turmoil, prejudice and unresolved conflict. Outer harmony is a projection of inner equanimity. An administrator who has mastered his own anger and biases can defuse communal tension or handle a hostile mob calmly, whereas an agitated official escalates crises. Self-awareness and emotional regulation thus precede public order.

Erikson — interdependence

Human life derives meaning from mutual reliance; autonomy without connection is barren. Governance itself rests on cooperative federalism, citizen participation and teamwork across departments. Recognising interdependence fosters empathy and collaborative problem-solving rather than ego-driven silos.

Synthesis

Together the three quotations map the arc of ethical public life — persevere in action, cultivate inner peace, and act in the awareness that we rise together.