When I was young, I had to choose between the life of…
“When I was young, I had to choose between the life of being and the life of doing. And I leapt at the latter like a trout to a fly. But each deed you do, each act, binds you to itself and to its consequences, and makes you act again and yet again. Then very seldom do you come upon a space, a time like this, between act and act, when you may stop and simply be. Or wonder who, after all, you are.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She contrasts a life of pure being with a life of continual doing, noting the rarity of moments for pure reflection.
In simple terms: Choosing action over being limits self‑reflection.
Key Takeaway
Make space for stillness.
Themes
action
being
reflection
consequence
Mood
contemplative
philosophical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- creative work
- daily routines
- meditation practice
Key Concepts
existentialism
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- When was the last time you paused to just be?
- How does constant doing shape your sense of self?
A Different Perspective
Constant activity can drown out the chance to simply be.