Find time still to be learning somewhat good, and give up being desultory” is a call to lifelong learning and focused attention. This quote encourages us to continually seek knowledge and growth, and to abandon aimless wandering or lack of direction in our pursuits.
The first part of the quote, “Find time still to be learning somewhat good,” suggests that no matter how busy our lives may become, we should always make time for learning things that are beneficial or virtuous. This could be interpreted as learning new skills, acquiring knowledge, or even cultivating moral virtues. The key here is that the learning should contribute positively to our lives or to the lives of others.
The second part of the quote, “and give up being desultory,” is a call to abandon aimlessness or lack of focus. To be desultory is to jump from one thing to another without a clear plan or purpose. This could be seen in the context of learning, where one might flit from one subject to another without really understanding or mastering anything. By giving up being desultory, we are encouraged to be more purposeful and focused in our learning and in our actions.
In the context of today’s world, this quote is incredibly relevant. In an age of information overload, it’s easy to become desultory, constantly jumping from one piece of information to another without really learning or understanding anything deeply. This quote reminds us to be more discerning and focused in our consumption of information, to seek out learning that is truly beneficial, and to make time for this learning amidst the busyness of our lives.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be a guiding principle. It encourages us to commit to lifelong learning, to always be seeking growth and improvement. It also reminds us to be purposeful and focused in our pursuits, to not just aimlessly drift through life, but to have a clear direction and purpose. This could mean setting clear goals for ourselves, pursuing our passions with determination, or continually striving to improve our skills and knowledge in areas that are important to us.
