I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words, "And this too, shall pass away." How much it expresses! How chastening in the hour of pride! How consoling in the depths of affliction!
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the transient nature of all experiences, both good and bad.
Abraham Lincoln's quote reflects on the inevitability of change and the passage of time. It serves as a reminder that all situations, whether they bring joy or sorrow, are temporary. The phrase conveys a humbling message during moments of pride and offers comfort during times of hardship, reminding us to remain grounded and resilient as we navigate life's ups and downs.
Themes
ImpermanenceChangeWisdomResilienceHumility
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming challenges, one might say, 'Remember, this too shall pass.'
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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