Quote of the day by Ruskin Bond: “Simple joys, curiosity, and persistence make life extraordinary”

The name is Bond, Ruskin Bond. The man who has given us timeless stories also shares his pearls of wisdom as quotes. One of his quotes; “Simple joys, curiosity, and persistence make life extraordinary,” is a reminder to pause. To breathe. To look around.

In a world where we’re constantly glued to screens, scrolling without thinking, chasing the next big thing, this quote feels like a gentle hand on the shoulder.

Ruskin Bond, India’s most beloved storyteller, has always found magic in the ordinary. Through his stories, he teaches us that life doesn’t become meaningful through hustle or headlines, but through small, quiet moments we often overlook. A cup of tea on a rainy afternoon. A familiar street at dusk. The comfort of doing something you love, again and again.

Also read | Ruskin Bond: Build castles in the air... then put foundations under them

What does the quote mean?

When Bond says “Simple joys, curiosity, and persistence make life extraordinary,” he’s not talking about fame or grand success. He’s talking about living with your eyes open and your heart present. Bond, who has spent a lifetime observing the little things, be it the rustle of leaves, the smell of rain on dry earth, or the slow rhythm of small-town life, believes that an extraordinary life is about awareness. About staying curious. About continuing, even when no one is watching.

In an age of instant gratification and constant notifications, his words inspire us to slow down. To stay engaged. To show up for our own lives.

Lessons you can take from the quote

Simple joys: Happiness doesn’t need to be dramatic. A morning coffee, a shared laugh, a favourite book, a quiet walk in the park—these moments matter, if we allow ourselves to feel them.

Curiosity: Curiosity keeps us alive inside. Asking questions, learning something new, seeing the world through different eyes—it turns even the most ordinary day into a small adventure.