This quote suggests that philosophy is a powerful tool for understanding and overcoming past and future difficulties. It implies that philosophy allows us to reflect on past mistakes or hardships and learn from them, while also helping us anticipate and prepare for future challenges. However, when it comes to dealing with current problems, philosophy often falls short. This is because philosophy is a discipline of contemplation and thought, while present troubles often require immediate, practical solutions.

The perspective offered here is that philosophy, while valuable, cannot replace action in the face of immediate challenges. It suggests that while deep reflection and critical thinking are important, they are not always enough to resolve the problems we face in the present moment.

In today’s world, this idea can be seen in the way we often struggle to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. For example, one might understand the philosophical concepts behind conflict resolution, yet find it difficult to apply these principles in the heat of an argument.

In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder that while it’s important to learn from the past and prepare for the future, we must not overlook the importance of dealing with the present. It suggests that we should balance our philosophical understanding with practical action. This might involve not just thinking about what’s right or wrong, but also taking steps to act on our beliefs. It might mean not just planning for future success, but also addressing current obstacles that stand in our way.