Quote by Alan Lightman, Einstein
Most people have learned to live in the moment. The argument goes that if the past has uncertain effect on the present, there is no need to dwell on the past. And if the present has little effect on the future, present actions need not be weighed for their consequence. Rather, each act is an island in time, to be judged on its own. Families comfort a dying uncle not because of a likely inheritance, but because he is loved at that moment. Employees are hired not because of their resumes, but because of their good sense in interviews. Clerks trampled by their bosses fight back at each insult, with no fear for their future. It is a world of impulse. It is a world of sincerity. It is a world in which every word spoken speaks just to that moment, every glance given has only one meaning.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the idea that in a world where people live in the present moment, the past and future hold little significance. It suggests that actions are judged individually and valued based on their immediate impact rather than their long-term consequences. Acts of love and kindness are done sincerely without consideration for personal gain. Hiring decisions are made based on intuition rather than qualifications. The quote paints a picture of a world driven by spontaneity and authenticity, where every word and gesture carries significance only in the present moment.
Topics
Past
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