None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
There are old heads in the world who cannot help me by their example or advice to live worthily and satisfactorily to myself; but I believe that it is in my power to elevate myself this very hour above the common level of my life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the power of self-improvement and personal responsibility.
Henry David Thoreau expresses the idea that external influences, such as advice or examples from others, may not always be helpful in achieving a fulfilling life. Instead, he asserts that the ability to improve oneself lies within. This reflects a strong sense of agency and the belief that individuals have the power to elevate their lives at any moment through their own efforts and determination.
Themes
Self-ImprovementPersonal ResponsibilityEmpowermentMotivationAgency
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal development.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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