Vita Contemplativa and Vita Activa

In our daily lives, activities sometimes become all consuming. When the realization dawns that we are living life in a reactive mode instead of proactive, we must stop and evaluate. A few solitary hours of reflection can guide the course of our future actions. It lets us grab the reins and actively steer the ship of life instead of being tossed and turned by the tides. 

Vita contemplativa (contemplative life) is vital for a meaningful Vita activa (active life) . Just like day follows the night, periods of activity must follow periods of rest and contemplation.

What we plant in the soil of contemplation, we shall reap in the harvest of action - Meister Echkart