This quote suggests that when you give something valuable to someone who is old and powerful, you’re giving them leverage or a potential weakness. This is because they now have something to lose, something that could be used against them. The speaker, being very old, implies that they have accumulated power and wisdom over the years, and thus, are cautious about forming attachments that could make them vulnerable.

The idea of being “old and powerful” can be interpreted in various ways. It could refer to an individual who has amassed considerable knowledge, experience, or material wealth over time. Alternatively, it could refer to institutions or entities that have been established for a long time and hold significant influence, like governments, corporations, or even cultural norms and societal structures.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied to personal development and relationships. For instance, when we give someone the power to affect us deeply, we also give them the ability to hurt us. This is not to say that we should avoid forming meaningful relationships or pursuing things we care about. Instead, it suggests that we should be mindful of the potential risks and vulnerabilities that come with deeply caring about something or someone. It’s about understanding the balance between vulnerability and power, attachment and independence.

Moreover, in a broader societal context, this quote could be a critique of power dynamics. It could be a warning against giving too much power or influence to entities that are already powerful. This could apply to anything from monopolistic corporations controlling consumer choices to autocratic governments controlling citizen freedoms. The quote suggests a need for balance and caution in power distribution.

Overall, the quote is a reminder to be mindful of our vulnerabilities, to respect the power dynamics at play in our relationships and societies, and to strive for a balance that minimizes potential harm and maximizes mutual respect and understanding.