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Life Quote by C.M. Curtis

“A man ought to get wisdom when he’s young, not when he’s too old for it to matter. We spend a lifetime learning, then we get old, and most of our livin’ is done and it don’t seem like there’s any use for what we’ve learned. It’s like skinnin’ a frog: takes a lot of time and work, but when it’s…” quote by C.M. Curtis
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““A man ought to get wisdom when he’s young, not when he’s too old for it to matter. We spend a lifetime learning, then we get old, and most of our livin’ is done and it don’t seem like there’s any use for what we’ve learned. It’s like skinnin’ a frog: takes a lot of time and work, but when it’s done what’ve you got? There’s no use for a frog hide.””

C.M. Curtis

About This Quote

Source Speech: Unknown, attributed to C.M. Curtis, 20th century

Wisdom is most valuable when acquired early; learning late offers little practical benefit.

In simple terms: Learn early, use later.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge while young.

Themes

wisdom timing learning age utility

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education planning
  • career development
  • personal growth
  • mentorship
  • late‑life learning

Key Concepts

human development knowledge acquisition life stages

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can older adults share learned insights effectively?
  • What structures support early learning?
A Different Perspective

If you acquire wisdom later, you may still apply it in advisory roles.

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