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A few years ago I met an old professor at the University…

“A few years ago I met an old professor at the University of Notre Dame. Looking back on his long life of teaching, he said with a funny wrinkle in his eyes: I have always been complaining that my work was constantly interrupted, until I slowly discovered that my interruptions were my work.” quote by Henri Nouwen
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“A few years ago I met an old professor at the University of Notre Dame. Looking back on his long life of teaching, he said with a funny wrinkle in his eyes: I have always been complaining that my work was constantly interrupted, until I slowly discovered that my interruptions were my work.”

Henri Nouwen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Interruptions are not obstacles but the work itself; embracing them reveals purpose and growth.

In simple terms: Interruptions are part of the work.

Key Takeaway

Embrace interruptions as opportunities.

Themes

mindfulness teaching purpose

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • classroom
  • creative projects
  • personal coaching

Key Concepts

philosophy self‑reflection productivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we differentiate productive interruptions?
  • What practices turn interruptions into work?
A Different Perspective

Constant interruptions can still hinder deep focus.

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