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Astronomy Quote by Adelaide Anne Procter

“Have we not all, amid life's petty strife, Some pure ideal of a noble life That once seemed possible? Did we not hear The flutter of its wings, and feel it near, And just within our reach? It was. And yet We lost it in this daily jar and fret, And now live idle in a vague regret; But still our…” quote by Adelaide Anne Procter
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“Have we not all, amid life's petty strife, Some pure ideal of a noble life That once seemed possible? Did we not hear The flutter of its wings, and feel it near, And just within our reach? It was. And yet We lost it in this daily jar and fret, And now live idle in a vague regret; But still our place is kept, and it will wait, Ready for us to fill it, soon or late. No star is ever lost we once have seen, We always may be what we might have been.”

Adelaide Anne Procter

About This Quote

Source Poem: Untitled (19th‑century poetry) by Adelaide Anne Procter

The poem laments how everyday struggles obscure a once‑clear, noble ideal that remains attainable if we reclaim it.

In simple terms: Life’s hardships hide a noble ideal that can still be reached.

Key Takeaway

Re‑engage with your higher aspirations.

Themes

hope regret aspiration resilience

Mood

reflective determined

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • career decisions
  • creative projects
  • relationship building

Key Concepts

idealism human potential existential longing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What noble ideal have you set aside?
  • How can you make it tangible today?
A Different Perspective

Idealism can fade without concrete action and perseverance.

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