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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lewis contrasts emotions based on whether they focus on the past, present, or future.
In plain terms
Gratitude and love look back or present; fear looks forward.
What can you take from it?
Watch where your feelings point.

Where it applies

  • self-reflection
  • emotional health
  • spiritual growth

Putting it to work

  • cultivate gratitude
  • reduce forward-looking fear

Questions to consider

  • Where does your focus lie?
  • Which emotions dominate you?

Another view

It simplifies the complex nature of human emotions.

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