This quote suggests that our desire to prolong our existence, to “go on and on,” stems from a dissatisfaction or lack of fulfillment in our current circumstances, referred to here as an “impoverished present.” It implies that we are constantly seeking more, whether that’s more time, more experiences, or more material possessions, because we feel that what we currently have is not enough. We’re driven by the belief that the future holds something better, something richer, than what we have now.
The “impoverished present” could be interpreted in several ways. It could mean that we’re not fully engaged in the present moment because we’re too focused on the future or the past. We may be physically present, but our minds are elsewhere. Alternatively, it could mean that our present circumstances are lacking in some way, whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually. Either way, we’re not fully satisfied with the now, so we’re always striving for more.
In today’s fast-paced, consumer-driven society, this idea is especially relevant. We’re constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need more to be happy: more money, more success, more possessions. This can lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction and a constant striving for more.
In terms of personal development, this quote suggests that true fulfillment comes not from acquiring more, but from fully appreciating and engaging with the present. This could involve mindfulness, the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment. It could also involve gratitude, the practice of recognizing and appreciating what we already have. By shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have, we can transform our “impoverished present” into a rich and fulfilling now.
Furthermore, this quote could also be a call to action to address the actual impoverishment in our lives or in the world around us. If our present is impoverished, it might be because of systemic issues like inequality, injustice, or environmental degradation. In this sense, the desire to “go on and on” could be a desire for progress, for a better and more equitable world.
