We should be careful to get out of an experience only the wisdom that is in it - and stop there lest we be like the cat that sits down on a hot stove-lid. She will never sit down on a hot stove-lid again - and that is well but also she will never sit down on a cold one anymore.

Summary

This quote urges us to seek wisdom from our experiences but warns us against forming extreme reactions or avoiding similar situations altogether. Like the example of the cat, we should learn from the pain of sitting on a hot stove-lid and avoid it in the future. However, we must also be cautious not to become too fearful or hesitant, as this might prevent us from experiencing any similar situations, even if they are not harmful. It reminds us to strike a balance between learning from the past and being open to new experiences.