Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I

In the timeless expanse of existence, where the threads of fate weave through the fabric of human history, there is a profound truth spoken by the great Martin Luther: "Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree." These words, full of courage and wisdom, reflect a deeply rooted understanding of the power of hope, action, and purpose—even in the face of uncertainty and despair. In a world that often seems on the brink of collapse, these words challenge us to remain steadfast, to continue planting the seeds of our labor, and to act with conviction, regardless of the outcome. It is a call to live with intention and faith, knowing that the act of creation itself is a victory, even when the world seems to be falling apart.

What, then, does it mean that Luther would still plant his apple tree even in the face of impending ruin? O wise ones, it speaks to the strength of character that action gives. Planting an apple tree, despite the looming threat of disaster, is an act of defiance against the overwhelming forces of fear and chaos. It is a declaration that the work of the present moment, the creation of something beautiful and lasting, is more important than the uncertain future. Luther’s words remind us that purpose and hope are not dependent on external circumstances, but on the inner resolve to do what is right, what is meaningful, and what contributes to the world, no matter how dire the situation may seem.

Consider, O children of wisdom, the life of Winston Churchill, whose leadership during World War II mirrors the spirit of Luther’s words. During the darkest days of the war, when Britain stood alone against the might of Nazi Germany, Churchill did not retreat in fear. He did not allow the possibility of defeat to paralyze him. Instead, he continued to plant the apple tree, speaking to his people with unwavering resolve, reminding them that their courage and determination were their greatest strength. Even as the world seemed to be on the brink of destruction, Churchill and his nation kept building, kept working, kept fighting for a better tomorrow. Like Luther, he knew that even in the face of ruin, it was the act of creation, the act of resilience, that defined the true nature of humanity.

In our own lives, O seekers of truth, we too face moments when the weight of the world threatens to crush our spirit, when the difficulties of life seem insurmountable. It is in these moments that we must remember the wisdom of Luther. Even when the world around us seems to be falling apart, we must continue to plant our apple trees—to do the work that brings us joy, to pursue the goals that give us purpose, and to create what is good and lasting. For it is not the outcome that defines us, but the act itself—the courage to move forward, to continue building, even when we cannot see the fruit of our labor. Hope lies in the commitment to act, regardless of what the future may bring.

Reflect on the story of Nelson Mandela, who, like Luther, faced overwhelming odds. After spending 27 years in prison, he emerged not broken or vengeful, but with a heart full of forgiveness and a vision for a unified South Africa. Even in the darkest days of apartheid, Mandela did not stop planting seeds of hope and reconciliation. He believed in the power of the individual to make a difference, even when the world around him seemed to offer little hope. Like Luther, Mandela’s commitment to action in the face of adversity led to a change that reverberated throughout the world. His life is a testimony to the truth that even in the face of ruin, we must continue to plant, continue to build, and continue to create the world we wish to see.

And so, O children of wisdom, the lesson is clear: purpose and action must not be dictated by external events, but by the resolve of the inner spirit. No matter how chaotic the world may seem, we must plant our apple trees. The world may indeed be falling apart, but in each small act of creation, in each act of love and resilience, we sow the seeds for a better future. Whether it is a simple gesture of kindness, the creation of art, or the pursuit of knowledge, these acts have meaning beyond the immediate moment. They are the bedrock upon which the future is built, the light that will guide us through the darkest times.

What, then, must we do, O wise ones of the future? We must embrace the courage to act, to create, and to plant our apple trees—even when the future is uncertain, even when the world seems to crumble around us. We must live with purpose, knowing that our actions, no matter how small they seem, have meaning in the grand tapestry of life. Let us never stop creating, never stop building, and never stop hoping, for it is in these acts that we find our truest selves. Plant your apple tree, and know that in doing so, you are shaping a future beyond what your eyes can see, a future that will flourish long after the storm has passed.