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The Future is, of all things, the thing least like eternity. It is the most temporal part of time--for the Past is frozen and no longer flows, and the Present is all lit up with eternal rays.
C. S. Lewis
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The future is temporary and ever-changing, unlike the past which is fixed and the present that is illuminated by possibilities.

C. S. Lewis reflects on the nature of time, distinguishing between the future, present, and past. He describes the future as fleeting and uncertain, contrasting it with the past, which is immutable, and the present, which is vibrant and filled with potential. This highlights the importance of living in the moment and recognizing that our perception of time is dynamic.

Themes

FutureTimePresentPastPhilosophyChange

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about the importance of planning for the future.

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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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