Lewis Carroll: 'The rule is, jam tomorrow and jam yesterday - but never jam today.'

The rule is, jam tomorrow and jam yesterday - but never jam today.

Lewis Carroll, the renowned author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, once said, "The rule is, jam tomorrow and jam yesterday - but never jam today." At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing or nonsensical, but upon closer examination, it carries a deeper meaning about the human tendency to postpone enjoyment and live in the past or future rather than fully embracing the present moment.In a straightforward interpretation, this quote can be understood as a commentary on the human desire for instant gratification. Carroll suggests that we often find ourselves longing for things that are not immediately available, such as the jam that we can only enjoy in the future or reminisce about from the past. This evokes the familiar feeling of always seeking pleasure in some distant time, rather than appreciating the present moment and making the most of what we have available to us right now.However, beyond its surface interpretation, this quote also opens up a door to philosophical reflection. It invites us to explore the concept of time and our relationship with it. Carroll's mention of tomorrow and yesterday prompts us to question why we tend to idealize the past or anticipate the future, instead of embracing the here and now.One possible explanation lies in our innate human nature to seek constant improvement and strive for betterment. We often look back at the past as a source of nostalgia, thinking that it was a simpler and happier time. Similarly, we look forward to the future with anticipation, hoping that it will bring us the happiness and fulfillment we desire. In this sense, the present becomes a mere transitional stage, a means to an end rather than a valuable experience in itself.This mindset is deeply rooted in our fear of the unknown and our yearning for control. The past is familiar, a collection of memories we can hold onto, while the future is something we can project our hopes and dreams onto. The present, on the other hand, can be unpredictable and uncontrollable. It demands that we confront reality as it is, without the comfort of nostalgic reminiscence or the reassurance of a planned future.Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize the importance of embracing the present and finding joy in the here and now. Life unfolds moment by moment, and by constantly chasing the elusive jam of tomorrow or yesterday, we risk missing out on the richness and beauty of the present. The present moment is the only one we have true control over, and it holds the potential for growth, learning, and fulfillment.Moreover, focusing on the present allows us to develop a deeper connection with ourselves and others. When we are fully present in our interactions, we can listen more attentively, empathize more genuinely, and cherish the shared experiences we create. By being mindful of the present, we become active participants in our own lives, rather than mere spectators or victims of circumstance.Carroll's quote, though seemingly whimsical, holds profound wisdom about the human quest for pleasure and the pitfalls of postponing joy. It encourages us to reevaluate our relationship with time, challenging us to find a balance between acknowledging the past, planning for the future, and fully immersing ourselves in the present moment. By doing so, we can savor the sweetness of the jam that is only available today, while appreciating the memories of the jam we enjoyed yesterday and eagerly anticipating the jam that awaits us tomorrow.