This quote speaks to the human capacity for anticipation and longing, and the pain that can come when those expectations or dreams are not, or cannot be, realized. It highlights the paradox of memory, which is typically associated with the past, being used in the context of the future. Here, "remembering the future" refers to the act of mentally constructing or imagining a future that now, for whatever reason, will never come to pass. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as missed opportunities, changes in circumstances, or the loss of a loved one.
The pain that Kierkegaard refers to is the emotional suffering one undergoes when they’re forced to confront the harsh reality that their envisioned future is unattainable. This can lead to feelings of regret, disappointment, and grief. It’s the realization of a loss of potential, the mourning of a life that could have been but will never be.
In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant as we constantly plan and envision our futures. We set goals, make plans, and have dreams about what our future will look like. Yet, life is unpredictable and these plans often don’t come to fruition. When they don’t, we are left with the pain of remembering a future that will never exist.
In terms of personal development, this concept can serve as a reminder to remain adaptable and resilient in the face of change. It encourages us to accept that the future is uncertain, and that our plans and dreams may not always come to pass. This isn’t to discourage planning or dreaming, but rather to promote the acceptance of life’s unpredictability and the cultivation of resilience. It’s a call to live in the present, cherish the moments we have, and not get too attached to specific outcomes. It’s about learning to let go of the futures we had imagined for ourselves and finding peace in the reality that unfolds.