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About this quote

What does it mean?
People want longevity but fear the aging process and its drawbacks.
In plain terms
Everyone wants to live long, but no one wants to be old.
What can you take from it?
Accept aging as a natural part of life.

Where it applies

  • discussions on mortality
  • life planning
  • aging concerns

Putting it to work

  • reflect on values
  • plan for elder care
  • embrace each stage

Questions to consider

  • What does growing old mean to you?
  • How do you define a good life?

Another view

It oversimplifies the nuanced views people have on aging.

More from Jonathan Swift

  1. We have just enough religion to make us hate, but not enough to make us love one another.

    Permalink to quote #40
  2. A nice man is a man of nasty ideas.

    Permalink to quote #42
  3. Ubi saeva indignatio ulterius cor lacerare nequit

    Permalink to quote #39

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