This quote emphasizes the brevity of human life and how quickly it seems to pass. It suggests that just when we feel like we are really starting to understand life, make sense of our experiences, and truly live, we find ourselves facing the inevitable reality of our mortality. The quote uses a metaphorical language to express the universal human experience of time seeming to accelerate as we age.
The phrase “scarcely begun to live” implies that often people spend a significant portion of their lives not fully embracing or appreciating their existence. This could be due to being preoccupied with mundane tasks, worrying about the future or dwelling on past mistakes. Then suddenly they find themselves closer to death than birth and realize they have not truly lived in the present moment.
Applying this idea in today’s world or personal development might mean adopting a greater sense of urgency in living one’s life fully and intentionally. It underscores the importance of not waiting until later stages in life to pursue passions, build meaningful relationships, or make significant contributions.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder for individuals to seize every day and live it fully because time is fleeting. It encourages people not only value quantity (length) but also quality (depth) when it comes down to living their lives.
It may also suggest investing more time into self-reflection and understanding oneself better earlier on in life so that one can lead a more fulfilling existence throughout rather than realizing late that they have barely scratched surface about what it means for them personally ‘to live’.
Moreover, this perspective might prompt individuals towards more sustainable choices considering longevity isn’t guaranteed; whether those are healthier lifestyle decisions which could potentially prolong one’s lifespan or environmentally conscious choices ensuring there is still an inhabitable planet left for coming generations even if one has ‘scarcely begun’ making amends before being ‘called upon’.
Thus Spurgeon’s words continue echoing reminding us how precious and fleeting our time here is, urging us to make the most out of every moment we are granted.