None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
So thoroughly and sincerely are we compelled to live, reverencing our life, and denying the possibility of change. This is the only way, we say; but there are as many ways as there can be drawn radii from one centre. All change is a miracle to contemplate; but it is a miracle which is taking place every instant.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing change in life.
Henry David Thoreau's quote reflects on the human tendency to adhere to familiar ways of living while simultaneously denying the potential for change. He suggests that while we often believe there is only one way to live, in reality, there are countless possibilities, much like the various radii drawn from the same center. Change is a constant miracle in our lives that deserves to be acknowledged and contemplated.
Themes
ChangeLifePossibilityContemplationMiracle
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a motivational speech about personal growth.
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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