Long ago Quote by Henry David Thoreau
““but all the afternoon too, sitting with crossed legs, so many of them—as if the legs were made to sit upon, and not to stand or walk upon—I think that they deserve some credit for not having all committed suicide long ago.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Walden, Henry David Thoreau, 1854
He observes that many people sit idle, avoiding hardship, and thus survive longer than those who succumb to despair.
In simple terms: Idle people survive longer than those who give up.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the value of perseverance over resignation.
Themes
perseverance
existentialism
humanity
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- daily routine
- mental health
- loneliness
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
Stoicism
existential reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “sitting with crossed legs” symbolize for you?
- How can idle moments become purposeful?
A Different Perspective
Even passive existence can be a form of surrender.
