Meaning: This quote by Wendell Johnson, a psychologist, encapsulates the idea that people often become so fixated on waiting for a leader or a savior figure to guide them to a better future that they forget to take action and make progress on their own. The reference to Moses leading the Israelites to the promised land alludes to the biblical story of the exodus, where Moses played a pivotal role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt and towards the land that God had promised them. However, Johnson's quote suggests that the people's reliance on a figure like Moses has led to a state of inaction and dependency, where they have forgotten their own agency and ability to make strides towards their goals.

The image of waiting for a Moses to lead us into the promised land can be interpreted as a metaphor for waiting for a savior or a leader to solve our problems and lead us to a better future. It reflects a sense of passivity and a lack of proactive behavior, where individuals and communities may become consumed with the idea of a transformative figure who will single-handedly bring about positive change. This waiting mentality can lead to a sense of stagnation and complacency, as people may postpone taking responsibility for their own actions and rely on the hope of an external force to bring about the changes they desire.

The second part of the quote, "we have forgotten how to walk," reinforces the idea that the focus on waiting for a leader has resulted in a loss of self-reliance and initiative. Walking symbolizes the act of moving forward, taking steps, and making progress. By stating that "we have forgotten how to walk," Johnson suggests that the capacity for autonomous action and progress has been overshadowed by the fixation on waiting for a guiding figure. This could be seen as a lament for the loss of individual agency and the ability to navigate one's own path towards a better future.

Johnson's quote can be applied to various contexts, including social and political movements, personal development, and leadership dynamics. In the realm of social and political change, it highlights the potential pitfalls of relying solely on charismatic leaders or messianic figures to bring about transformative shifts in society. Instead, it advocates for the importance of collective action, grassroots movements, and individual agency in effecting meaningful change.

On a personal level, the quote serves as a reminder of the significance of self-determination and taking proactive steps towards one's goals. It encourages individuals to reclaim their agency, rather than waiting for external validation or leadership. This can be particularly relevant in the context of personal growth, where individuals may look to role models or mentors for guidance but should ultimately take ownership of their own journeys.

Moreover, in the realm of leadership, the quote underscores the importance of empowering others to take action and fostering a culture of self-reliance and initiative. Effective leaders should not only inspire and guide their followers but also encourage them to walk their own paths and take ownership of their actions.

In conclusion, Wendell Johnson's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of waiting for a savior-like figure to lead us towards our aspirations, at the expense of forgetting our own agency and capacity for action. It urges individuals and communities to reclaim their autonomy, take proactive steps, and walk their own paths towards the promised land they seek.