Accepting Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“But the man and woman of seventy assume to know all, they have outlived their hope, they renounce aspiration, accept the actual for the necessary and talk down to the young. Let them then become organs of the Holy Ghost; let them be lovers; let them behold truth; and their eyes are uplifted, their wrinkles smoothed, they are perfumed again with hope and power.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
It critiques elderly who abandon ambition, urging them to seek spiritual renewal and inspire youth.
In simple terms: Old age should not quit hope; seek spiritual renewal.
Key Takeaway
Encourage elders to inspire youth.
Themes
age
spirituality
hope
mentorship
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- community events
- intergenerational mentorship
- religious gatherings
Key Concepts
existentialism
renewal
Questions to Reflect On
- What can elders do to stay hopeful?
- How can youth benefit from elder wisdom?
A Different Perspective
May romanticize aging without addressing real limitations.
