Every day Quote by Thomas Paine
““In the progress of politics, as in the common occurrences of life, we are not only apt to forget the ground we have travelled over, but frequently neglect to gather up experience as we go. We expend, if I may so say, the knowledge of every day on the circumstances that produce it, and journey on in search of new matter and new refinements: but as it is pleasant and sometimes useful to look back, even to the first periods of infancy, and trace the turns and windings through which we have passed, so we may likewise derive many advantages by halting a while in our political career, and taking a review of the wondrous complicated labyrinth of little more than yesterday.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Political reflections, early 19th century (date unknown)
Pausing to review past political actions helps us learn from experience and avoid repeating mistakes.
In simple terms: Review past politics to learn and improve
Key Takeaway
Take time to reflect on political decisions
Themes
history
reflection
learning
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- campaign strategy
- legislative review
- public policy analysis
- educational seminars
Key Concepts
Strategic planning
institutional memory
Questions to Reflect On
- What lessons from past policies can guide current decisions?
- When is reflection more harmful than helpful?
A Different Perspective
Over‑analysis can stall progress; balance reflection with action.
![“This cold weather has set all the young Folks to providing Bedfellows. I have signed two or three Licences every Day [as a Fairfax Justice of the Peace] since I have been at Home. I wish I knew where to get a good one myself; for I find cold Sheets extreamly disagreeable.” quote by George Mason](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b92/george-mason-8435_bedfellows_this-cold-weather-has-set-all-the-young_3953.jpg)
