Accepting Quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
“Decide not rashly. The decision made Can never be recalled. The gods implore not, Plead not, solicit not; they only offer Choice and occasion, which once being passed Return no more. Dost thou accept the gift?”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Gift of the Gods" (attributed, unknown source)
Impulsive choices cannot be undone; divine forces provide limited opportunities that must be weighed carefully before acceptance.
In simple terms: Act quickly and you cannot reverse it.
Think before you act.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career choices
- relationship decisions
- financial investments
- legal agreements
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What decision are you postponing?
- How do you evaluate limited opportunities?
The quote assumes a mythic framework that may not apply to secular decisions.