Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings.
Meaning
A young Thoreau wrote this in his journal as a resolution about how to treat time. No hour is petty if you meet it with gratitude. When a boring wait or a rough afternoon arrives, ask what it offers you, such as a thought, a chat, or rest.
Source: Journal (6 July 1840)
About the author
(1817–1862) was an American essayist, philosopher, and naturalist known for his book "Walden" and his essay "Civil Disobedience." Thoreau advocated for simple living, self-reliance, and harmony with nature. His ideas influenced environmentalism and political activism, including movements led by Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Thoreau believed in individual conscience and resistance to unjust laws. His writing reflects a deep connection to nature and a commitment to personal freedom. Henry David Thoreau’s legacy continues to inspire discussions on sustainability, ethics, and social justice.
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