Time Is Too Slow For Those Who Wait

Time Is Too Slow For Those Who Wait Graphic © InspirationPowerBoost.com

“Time is:
Too slow for those who wait,
Too swift for those who fear,
Too long for those who grieve,
Too short for those who rejoice,
But for those who love …
Time is Eternity.” — Henry van Dyke.

The Relativity of Time

Time, an ever-constant force, is perceived differently based on our emotions, experiences, and circumstances. This quote beautifully encapsulates the subjective nature of time, highlighting how it can stretch endlessly in moments of grief and fly by in moments of joy. At its core, the quote emphasizes that when love is the guiding force, time transcends its boundaries, becoming eternal.

Relevance in Our Ever-Changing Lives

In today’s fast-paced world, where every second counts, it’s easy to lose sight of the deeper essence of time. We often find ourselves waiting for something, fearing the unknown, grieving losses, or rejoicing in achievements. This quote serves as a poignant reminder that while time may seem to drag or fly based on our emotions, it’s the love we hold in our hearts that gives time its true meaning.

Delving into the Emotions of Time

Each line of the quote touches upon a distinct emotion and its relationship with time:

– Waiting: The anticipation, the hope, and sometimes the frustration make time seem to crawl.

– Fear: In moments of anxiety and dread, time seems to race, leaving us feeling overwhelmed.

– Grief: The pain of loss can make days feel like years, with time stretching endlessly.

– Rejoice: In moments of sheer joy and celebration, time seems fleeting, passing in the blink of an eye.

Yet, when love is the anchor, time’s constraints dissolve, leading to an eternal bond that transcends the physical realm.

This quote was originally created by Henry Van Dyke as an inscription for a sundial. We can imagine this perfect inscription etched around the face of the dial, while the shadow of the sun moves slowly across them.

Time And The Brain

The perception that time flows differently depending on the circumstance is a common experience. Why is it that time seems to crawl when we are bored or anxious, yet rushes by when we are happily engaged? The apparent elasticity of time has to do with how our brains process information.

During novel or intense experiences, our brains are rapidly processing large amounts of sensory information. We are dialed into the present moment. When the brain is challenged or overwhelmed with stimuli, time seems to slow down. Our perception of time expands to take in all the new data.

On the other hand, routine and uninspiring tasks make time feel like it’s slipping by quickly. This is because the brain is not focused and is capable of wandering. With little new information to process, our awareness drifts to the past or future which makes the present time feel fleeting.

Our emotions also impact time perception. Stress, fear or sadness can make minutes feel like hours as the brain is on high alert scanning for threats. Joy and excitement tend to make time fly because the brain is consumed with the pleasant sensations.

Ultimately, our experience of time is subjective, shaped by our state of mind. While clock time remains fixed, the mind stretches or condenses our felt sense of time passing. Understanding this phenomenon gives us insight on what engages our brains and what emotional states expand our awareness of each moment. In this way, we gain some ability to alter perception and deepen presence.

Henry Van Dyke: A Life of Letters and Service

Henry Van Dyke, the original author of the quote was a multifaceted individual whose contributions spanned literature, theology, and public service. Born in 1852 in Germantown, Pennsylvania, he grew up in a nurturing environment that cultivated his love for literature and the arts. Van Dyke graduated from Princeton University and later from Princeton Theological Seminary, setting the stage for a life intertwined with academia and spirituality.

As a Presbyterian minister, Van Dyke’s sermons were not just theological discourses but were imbued with a poetic touch, reflecting his deep love for literature. His literary contributions are vast, ranging from poetry to prose, with many of his works, like “The Other Wise Man,” gaining significant acclaim. His writings often delved into themes of nature, love, and spirituality, resonating with a wide audience and earning him a place among the esteemed literary figures of his time.

Beyond his literary and theological pursuits, Van Dyke was also a public servant. He served as the U.S. Minister to the Netherlands and Luxembourg under President Woodrow Wilson. His tenure in this diplomatic role during the tumultuous times of World War I showcased his commitment to peace and international cooperation. Throughout his life, whether through his writings, sermons, or public service, Henry Van Dyke consistently championed the ideals of love, peace, and understanding.

Daily Affirmation

“Today, I choose to embrace every moment, understanding that time’s essence lies in the emotions it evokes. I will cherish love, making every second count.”

Similar Inspirational Quotes

“They say time heals all wounds, but that presumes the source of the grief is finite.” – Cassandra Clare

“Time flies over us, but leaves its shadow behind.” – Nathaniel Hawthorne

“The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” – Leo Tolstoy

“Love is, above all, the gift of oneself.” – Jean Anouilh