Nothing in nature is exhausted in its first use...In God, every end is converted into a new means.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that nothing in nature is fully depleted after its first use; instead, it points to a cycle of renewal and reuse, especially relating to divine influence.
Ralph Waldo Emerson's quote emphasizes the idea that resources in nature are not consumed entirely through initial usage. Instead, nature possesses an inherent ability to regenerate and transform, indicating a profound relationship between endings and new beginnings. This reflects a philosophical view that in a divinely orchestrated universe, every conclusion offers a chance for a new opportunity, illustrating the continuous flow of life and existence.
In practice
To inspire someone during a graduation speech about lifeβs new opportunities.
It is plain that there is no separate essence called courage, no cup or cell in the brain, no vessel in the heart containing drops or atoms that make or give this virtue; but it is the right or healthy state of every man, when he is free to do that which is constitutional to him to do.
Few people have any next, they live from hand to mouth without a plan, and are always at the end of their line.
Men cease to interest us when we find their limitations
Tis the good reader that makes the good book; a good head cannot read amiss: in every book he finds passages which seem confidences or asides hidden from all else and unmistakeably meant for his ear.
The world belongs to the energetic.
Hast thou named all the birds without a gun?
I can enjoy society in a room; but out of doors, nature is company enough for me
I never get tired of the blue sky.
I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contain'd, I stand and look at them long and long.
Beauty is composed of many things and never stands alone. It is part of horizons, blue in the distance, great primeval silences, knowledge of all things of the earth. It embodies the hopes and dreams of those who have gone before, including the spirit world; it is so fragile it can be destroyed by a sound or thought. It may be infinitesimally small or encompass the universe itself. It comes in a swift conception wherever nature has not been disturbed.
Nature has a great simplicity and therefore a great beauty.
Travelers repose and dream among my leaves.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.