Meaning: The quote "We crucify ourselves between two thieves: regret for yesterday and fear of tomorrow" by Fulton Oursler encapsulates the human tendency to dwell on past regrets and worry about the future, often at the expense of fully living in the present. Fulton Oursler, an American journalist and author, was known for his insightful and thought-provoking writings, and this quote is no exception. In this quote, Oursler uses the metaphor of crucifixion to illustrate how we can become trapped in a cycle of self-inflicted suffering by allowing regret and fear to dominate our thoughts and actions.

Regret for yesterday is a common human experience. We often find ourselves mulling over past mistakes, missed opportunities, and the things we wish we had done differently. This regret can consume our thoughts and emotions, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame. It can also prevent us from fully embracing the present and moving forward with a sense of optimism and purpose. Oursler's use of the word "thieves" to describe regret highlights the idea that dwelling on the past can rob us of the joy and potential for growth that exists in the present moment.

On the other hand, fear of tomorrow represents our apprehension about the unknown future. The uncertainty of what lies ahead can be a source of anxiety and stress, causing us to worry about potential challenges, failures, or disappointments. This fear can paralyze us, preventing us from taking risks, pursuing our goals, and fully engaging with life. Oursler's choice of the word "thieves" to describe fear emphasizes how it can steal our peace of mind and prevent us from experiencing the beauty and opportunities that each new day brings.

By using the imagery of crucifixion, Oursler draws a powerful parallel between the self-inflicted suffering caused by regret and fear and the agony of crucifixion. This metaphor serves as a stark reminder of the ways in which we can become our own tormentors, allowing our thoughts and emotions to crucify us in a metaphorical sense.

In essence, Oursler's quote serves as a poignant reminder to live in the present moment and to free ourselves from the burdens of regret and fear. It encourages us to acknowledge the past, learn from it, and then let it go, as well as to approach the future with a sense of optimism and courage rather than succumbing to fear and anxiety. By doing so, we can liberate ourselves from the self-imposed suffering caused by dwelling on the past and worrying about the future, and instead embrace the richness of life that exists in the here and now.

In conclusion, Fulton Oursler's quote "We crucify ourselves between two thieves: regret for yesterday and fear of tomorrow" offers a poignant reflection on the human tendency to be consumed by past regrets and future fears. Through the use of vivid imagery and metaphor, Oursler highlights the self-inflicted nature of this suffering and encourages us to break free from its grip. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder to live in the present, free from the burdens of the past and the anxieties of the future, and to embrace life with a sense of gratitude, courage, and hope.