Life is divided into three terms - that which was, which is, and which will be. Let us learn from the past to profit by the present, and from the present to live better in the future.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Life consists of past, present, and future. We should use past lessons to benefit now and improve how we live ahead.
- In plain terms
- Learn from the past to use the present well and live better in the future.
- What can you take from it?
- Use past lessons to improve present actions and future outcomes.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What lesson from your past helps you today?
- How can you use the present to shape your future?
Another view
Not all past experiences offer clear lessons or benefits.
More from William Wordsworth
In modern business it is not the crook who is to be feared most, it is the honest man who doesn't know what he is doing.
Permalink to quote #193 To begin, begin.
Permalink to quote #195 Give all thou canst; high Heaven rejects the lore Of nicely calculated less or more.
Permalink to quote #192
Related quotes
The past is an old armchair in the attic, the present an ominous ticking sound, and the future is anybody's guess.
James ThurberJames Thurber quote #86 The future is seconds ahead.
Gruff RhysGruff Rhys quote #1 'The future is no place to place your better days'
Dave MatthewsDave Matthews quote #4