Meaning: This quote by Dag Hammarskjold, a Swedish diplomat and the second Secretary-General of the United Nations, captures the experience of waiting and the perception of time from a child's perspective. The quote suggests that time can feel prolonged when one is eagerly anticipating a future event, such as Christmas or the arrival of summer, as well as when one is fully immersed in a moment of joy and contentment.

The first part of the quote, "Time always seems long to the child who is waiting - for Christmas, for next summer, for becoming a grownup," speaks to the impatience and longing that children often feel when anticipating significant events or milestones. Children are known for their eagerness and excitement when looking forward to special occasions, such as holidays or the prospect of growing older. The concept of time feels elongated to them as they eagerly await the fulfillment of their desires.

The second part of the quote, "long also when he surrenders his whole soul to each moment of a happy day," presents a contrasting perspective on time. Here, Hammarskjold suggests that time can also feel prolonged when a child is fully engaged and immersed in a joyful experience. This could be a moment of pure happiness and contentment, where the child loses track of time and surrenders themselves completely to the present moment. In these instances, time seems to stretch out, allowing the child to fully embrace and savor the happiness they are experiencing.

Hammarskjold's quote provides a poignant reflection on the subjective nature of time and the different ways in which it is perceived. The quote captures the dual experiences of waiting eagerly for the future and being fully present in moments of happiness, highlighting the complexity of our relationship with time.

From a psychological perspective, the quote can be interpreted as an exploration of how individuals perceive and experience the passage of time. Children, in particular, often struggle with the concept of time, as their understanding of it is still developing. The anticipation of future events can make time feel like it is passing slowly, as they eagerly await the fulfillment of their desires. Conversely, when fully engrossed in a joyful experience, time can seem to expand, allowing the child to immerse themselves in the present moment.

Additionally, the quote touches on the idea of mindfulness and the ability to be fully present in the moment. When a child surrenders themselves entirely to a happy day, they are practicing a form of mindfulness, focusing their attention on the present and embracing the joy they are experiencing. This mindfulness can create a sense of time dilation, as the child's complete immersion in the moment stretches out their perception of time.

In conclusion, Dag Hammarskjold's quote eloquently captures the dual nature of time as experienced by children. It portrays the contrasting experiences of waiting eagerly for the future and being fully present in moments of joy. The quote provides a thought-provoking reflection on the subjective nature of time and the different ways in which it is perceived and experienced, offering valuable insights into the psychology of time perception and mindfulness.