We believe that we can change the things around us in…
““We believe that we can change the things around us in accordance with our desires—we believe it because otherwise we can see no favourable outcome. We do not think of the outcome which generally comes to pass and is also favourable: we do not succeed in changing things in accordance with our desires, but gradually our desires change. The situation that we hoped to change because it was intolerable becomes unimportant to us. We have failed to surmount the obstacle, as we were absolutely determined to do, but life has taken us round it, led us beyond it, and then if we turn round to gaze into the distance of the past, we can barely see it, so imperceptible has it become.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Our desires shape how we perceive obstacles; when we cannot change circumstances, our goals adapt, making the original problem seem insignificant.
In simple terms: Desires shift when we can’t control outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Accept that change may come from within, not external success.
Themes
adaptation
perception
resilience
desire
acceptance
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career setbacks
- personal relationships
- health challenges
- financial crises
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
cognitive dissonance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you notice your desires evolving?
- When have you found a problem becoming less urgent over time?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the value of persistent effort to reshape reality.