QuoteProject
Think of what's stored in an 80- or a 90-year-old mind. Just marvel at it. You've got to get out this information, this knowledge, because you've got something to pass on. There'll be nobody like you ever again. Make the most of every molecule you've got as long as you've got a second to go.
Studs Terkel
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Value the knowledge and experiences you possess and share them with others.

This quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing the wealth of knowledge stored in a person's mind, especially as they age. It encourages individuals to share their unique insights and experiences, as these cannot be replicated and hold significant value for future generations. The message underscores the fleeting nature of life, urging people to make the most of their time and knowledge while they still can.

Themes

KnowledgeExperienceLegacyLifeSharing

In practice

Example use cases

During a graduation speech to motivate students to share their insights.

More from Studs Terkel

More and more we are into communications; and less and less into communication.
Studs TerkelRead
When it comes to the news, the corporate view is `objective,' all else is propaganda.
Studs TerkelRead
Heroes are not giant statues framed against a red sky. They are people who say: This is my community, and it is my responsibility to make it better. Interweave all these communities and you really have an America that is back on its feet again. I really think we are gonna have to reassess what constitutes a 'hero'.
Studs TerkelRead
We are the most powerful nation in the world, but we're not the only nation in the world. We are not the only people in the world. We are an important people, the wealthiest, the most powerful and, to a great extent, generous. But we are part of the world.
Studs TerkelRead
I read somewhere that when a person takes part in community action, his health improves. Something happens to him or to her biologically. It's like a tonic.
Studs TerkelRead
I've always felt, in all my books, that there's a deep decency in the American people and a native intelligence - providing they have the facts, providing they have the information.
Studs TerkelRead

Similar quotes

We have this myth that extroverts are better salespeople. As a result, extroverts are more likely to enter sales; extroverts are more likely to get promoted in sales jobs. But if you look at the correlation between extroversion and actual sales performance - that is, how many times the cash register actually rings - the correlation's almost zero.
Daniel H. PinkRead
When I think something nice is going to happen I seem to fly right up on the wings of anticipation; and then the first thing I realize I drop down to earth with a thud. But really, Marilla, the flying part is glorious as long as it lasts. . . it's like soaring through a sunset. I think it almost pays for the thud.
Lucy Maud MontgomeryRead
One thing about flying that he never got used to was that no matter how awful the weather was on the ground, if you flew high enough you could always find the sun.
Tom ClancyRead
I never think of the future - it comes soon enough.
Albert EinsteinRead
No matter what the reason, if you start to scream and shout, you look a fool, and you feel a fool, and you earn the disrespect of everyone.
Michael CaineRead
Be present. I would encourage you with all my heart just to be present. Be present and open to the moment that is unfolding before you. Because, ultimately, your life is made up of moments. So don't miss them by being lost in the past or anticipating the future.
Jessica LangeRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.