This quote suggests that the glory of old age doesn’t lie in the accumulation of years, but rather in the ability to maintain a youthful perspective on life, particularly the capacity to start anew. It’s about retaining the ability to begin again, to learn new things, to adapt to changes, and to grow. This is what makes aging a glorious process, according to this perspective.

The quote emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability. Unlearning how to begin, in this context, refers to losing the ability to adapt, to learn, or to start fresh. This could be due to becoming set in our ways, resistant to change, or losing the curiosity and openness that characterize youth. The quote implies that such rigidity and unwillingness to learn or change are not inherent to old age, but are pitfalls that one can and should avoid.

In today’s ever-changing world, this idea is particularly relevant. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, societal changes, and the increasing longevity of human life, the ability to adapt and learn is more crucial than ever. This quote can serve as a reminder to individuals and societies to value lifelong learning, adaptability, and the capacity for new beginnings, regardless of age.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a call to maintain a growth mindset throughout life. It suggests that one should never stop learning, growing, and adapting. It encourages us to stay curious, open-minded, and flexible, and to see every stage of life, including old age, as an opportunity for new beginnings and continued growth. It reminds us that our ability to start anew and adapt is a key factor in our ability to age gloriously.