Power ceases in the instant of repose; it resides in the moment of transition from a past to a new state, in the shooting of the gulf, in the darting to an aim.
Interpretation
True power is found in moments of change and transition, rather than in stillness.
Ralph Waldo Emerson's quote emphasizes that power is not a constant state but something that emerges during periods of change. It highlights the importance of being proactive and dynamic, illustrating that the ability to move from one state to another—whether in thoughts, actions, or circumstances—is where true strength lies.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire people during times of change.
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?
Riches cover a multitude of woes.
I find writing extremely difficult. I usually have to drag myself to my desk, mainly because I doubt myself. And it's getting harder because I want to improve with every book.
Do not base your life on the likings and dislikings or whims of others. What you are in life - whether you enjoy or suffer - it is your own responsibility. Be regular in your meditation and do not postpone for a later date your striving for God consciousness.
The range of what we think and do is limited by what we fail to notice.
There is no pleasure without a tincture of bitterness.
I have never regretted my silence. As for my speech, I have regretted it over and over again.
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