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Men are impatient, and for precipitating things; but the…

“Men are impatient, and for precipitating things; but the Author of Nature appears deliberate throughout His operations, accomplishing His natural ends by slow, successive steps. And there is a plan of things beforehand laid out, which, from the nature of it, requires various systems of means, as…” quote by Joseph Butler
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“Men are impatient, and for precipitating things; but the Author of Nature appears deliberate throughout His operations, accomplishing His natural ends by slow, successive steps. And there is a plan of things beforehand laid out, which, from the nature of it, requires various systems of means, as well as length of time, in order to the carrying on its several parts into execution.”

Joseph Butler

About This Quote

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

Human impatience contrasts with nature’s deliberate, incremental progress; a pre‑planned system unfolds slowly, requiring time and varied means to achieve its ends.

In simple terms: Nature works slowly and deliberately, unlike human haste.

Key Takeaway

Embrace patience and trust natural processes.

Themes

patience nature order

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • project planning
  • environmental stewardship

Key Concepts

philosophy theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you align your goals with natural timelines?
  • What systems support gradual progress?
A Different Perspective

Nature’s pace may conflict with urgent human needs.

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