Ausonius's quote carries a powerful message about the process of beginning and persevering in our endeavors. It states, "To begin - to begin is half the work, let half still remain; again begin this, and thou wilt have finished."
When we delve into this quote, we discover the importance of taking that initial step, as starting something is often the most challenging part of any task or project.
The quote suggests that beginning is "half the work," meaning that getting started is a significant milestone that brings us halfway towards completing our goals. The act of initiating our efforts sets us on a path towards accomplishment.
However, the quote also reminds us that even after starting, there is still much to be done. The second "half still remains," indicating that consistent effort and perseverance are required to see the task through to completion.
Imagine a person who wants to write a book. The act of sitting down and starting to write the first page is often the most difficult part. Once they overcome that initial hurdle and begin writing, they have achieved half of the work necessary to finish the book.
However, writing a book requires dedication, discipline, and the willingness to continue despite challenges and setbacks. The quote encourages us to persist in our efforts and "again begin this" if we encounter obstacles. By doing so, we move closer to our goal and eventually reach the point of completion.
The concept of "again begin this" highlights the iterative nature of success. It implies that, at times, we may face setbacks or need to restart our efforts, but with each new beginning, we gain valuable experience and momentum.
In summary, Ausonius's quote underscores the significance of taking that first step in any endeavor. Beginning is indeed half the work, as it propels us forward and sets us on the path towards achieving our goals. However, to reach completion, we must also persevere and continue our efforts. The quote encourages us to embrace persistence and embrace the process of "again begin this" as we journey towards success. So, let us start with determination, keep going with resilience, and celebrate each step as we work towards accomplishing our dreams and aspirations.