We call those poets who are first to mark, Through earth's dull mist the coming of the dawn, Who see in twilight's gloom the first pale spark, While others only note that day is gone.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Wisdom is the abstract of the past, but beauty is the promise of the future.
Interpretation
Wisdom draws from past experiences while beauty offers hope and potential for the future.
This quote emphasizes the distinction between wisdom and beauty, suggesting that wisdom is formed through the lessons and experiences of the past, which shape our understanding of the world. In contrast, beauty is portrayed as a hopeful and inspiring vision of what lies ahead, encouraging us to aspire for a better future. Together, they remind us to find value in our history while also looking forward to the possibilities that beauty represents.
In practice
During a graduation speech to inspire graduates about their future.
We call those poets who are first to mark, Through earth's dull mist the coming of the dawn, Who see in twilight's gloom the first pale spark, While others only note that day is gone.
Every real thought on every real subject knocks the wind out of somebody or other.
The very aim and end of our institutions is just this: that we may think what we like and say what we think.
Don't you stay at home of evenings? Don't you love a cushioned seat in a corner, by the fireside, with your slippers on your feet?
Sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle which fits them all.
Take your needle, my child, and work at your pattern; it will come out a rose by and by. Life is like that - one stitch at a time taken patiently and the pattern will come out all right like the embroidery.
It could be that one of the greatest hindrances to evangelism is the poverty of our own experience.
Pity is like a knife, sometimes, and it may pierce one who employs it more shrewdly than the victim it would save.
Never confuse motion with action.
If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?
It is a rare and difficult attainment to grow old gracefully and happily.
Great souls are not those who have fewer passions and more virtues than others, but only those who have greater designs.
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