Lost wealth may be replaced by industry, lost knowledge by study, lost health by temperance or medicine, but lost time is gone forever.
Samuel SmilesRead
Wisdom and understanding can only become the possession of individual men by travelling the old road of observation, attention, perseverance, and industry.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True wisdom comes from careful observation and persistent effort.
This quote emphasizes that wisdom and understanding are not innate gifts but are acquired through diligent observation, focused attention, and persistent effort along oneβs life journey. It suggests that the path to gaining knowledge is marked by hard work and a commitment to learning from experiences.
Themes
WisdomKnowledgeObservationPerseveranceEffort
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a graduation speech to inspire students about the value of hard work and learning.
More from Samuel Smiles
All quotes βHope is like the sun, which, as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us.
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The career of a great man remains an enduring monument of human energy. The man dies and disappears, but his thoughts and acts survive and leave an indelible stamp upon his race.
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An intense anticipation itself transforms possibility into reality; our desires being often but precursors of the things which we are capable of performing.
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If we opened our minds to enjoyment, we might find tranquil pleasures spread about us on every side. We might live with the angels that visit us on every sunbeam, and sit with the fairies who wait on every flower.
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The spirit of self-help is the root of all genuine growth in the individual.
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