“The first forty years of life give us the text; the next thirty supply the commentary on it.”
— Arthur Schopenhauer
Simplified Meaning:
In our first forty years, we experience and learn many things that shape who we are. These include our education, jobs, relationships, and personal moments. It's like writing a story with all the important events and choices we make. In the following thirty years, we look back on those experiences and try to understand them better. We reflect on our mistakes, achievements, and lessons. This reflection helps us make sense of our life, similar to how a teacher explains a book. For example, if someone struggled in their early years but found success later, they can look back and see how those struggles taught them valuable lessons. This process of reflecting can guide us to live a more thoughtful and fulfilled life.
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