Man thinks little about how he stands in social contexts and how responsible he is for what he does. If we take things seriously, we must feel responsible for what we do. One helps his fellowmen best when he becomes undemanding. Someone with a few needs helps his fellowmen more than if he were a philanthropist. For example, one who does not write unnecessary letters, saves that some people might have to climb many stairs.
It is a great mistake to believe that having many requirements helps people by providing them with more work. Giving people work does not increase in the least what they need.
Source (German): Rudolf Steiner – GA 97 – Das christliche Mysterium – Cologne, November 30, 1906 (page 196-197)
Anonymous translator
Previously posted on 11 November 2018
The great Rudolf Steiner Quotes Site 