Meaning: This quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero, a Roman statesman, philosopher, and orator, reflects on the human experience of time and mortality. Cicero was a prominent figure in Roman politics and is known for his philosophical works that continue to influence Western thought. In this quote, he ponders the impact of the future, when he will no longer exist, on his present experience of time.

Cicero's reflection on the passage of time and the contemplation of his own mortality is a theme that has been explored by many philosophers and thinkers throughout history. The quote captures the existential concern of individuals grappling with their finite existence in the face of the infinite expanse of time.

Cicero's acknowledgment of the "long time to come" when he will not exist speaks to the human awareness of mortality and the transience of life. This awareness often leads individuals to ponder the significance of their actions and the legacy they will leave behind. The quote suggests that the anticipation of one's non-existence in the future can have a profound impact on one's perception of the present.

The juxtaposition of the "long time to come" and the "short present time" reflects the paradoxical nature of human consciousness. The present moment, while fleeting, can feel endless in its immediacy, yet it is overshadowed by the vastness of the future. This contemplation of time and existence raises questions about the nature of human consciousness and the significance of individual lives within the context of the broader timeline of history.

Cicero's perspective also invites contemplation on the subjective experience of time. The quote suggests that the perception of time is not solely determined by its objective measurement, but is also influenced by the individual's awareness of their own mortality. This existential awareness can imbue the present moment with a sense of gravity and significance, as individuals grapple with the finite nature of their existence.

Furthermore, Cicero's quote prompts consideration of the human struggle to reconcile the finite nature of individual lives with the enduring impact of their actions. The tension between the ephemeral present and the enduring future raises questions about how individuals seek to create meaning and purpose in their lives, knowing that their existence is bound by the constraints of time.

In conclusion, Marcus Tullius Cicero's quote encapsulates the existential contemplation of time, mortality, and the human experience of existence. His reflection on the impact of the future on the present speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with the awareness of one's own finite existence within the vastness of time. The quote invites introspection and contemplation, prompting individuals to consider the significance of their lives in the face of the inexorable passage of time.