"Le temps est la substance dont je suis fait Le temps est une rivière qui m'emporte, mais je suis la rivière; c'est un tigre qui me dévore, mais je suis le tigre; c'est un feu qui me consume, mais je suis le feu"

The essence of this quote is all about our deep connection with time and how it shapes us. Imagine time as something that flows and moves, just like a river, or something powerful and fierce, like a tiger. But here’s the twist: we’re not just being carried along or devoured by these forces—we actually *are* them. It’s saying that time is within us and we are part of it, inseparable from its flow and force.

Context-wise, this quote comes from Jorge Luis Borges, an Argentine writer famous for his intricate and philosophical works. He often played with ideas of time, reality, and identity, and this quote reflects his fascination. In a world that’s always moving, Borges wanted to point out that we’re not just passive observers but integral parts of this constant change.

Let’s bring this to life with a real example. Think about a professional athlete. Take Michael Phelps, the swimmer. He trained relentlessly over years, and the time he invested—day after day—became a part of him. Every stroke, every lap, shaped him into the champion he became. Time wasn’t just something that passed while he trained; it was the very substance that formed his legendary status. When he swam, he didn't just move through the water—he became the embodiment of all the time and effort he invested.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? Start seeing your time as a resource that you’re actively shaping. If you spend your time learning, growing, and pursuing your passions, you’re not just passing time—you’re becoming the person you’re meant to be. It’s about recognizing that every moment is an opportunity to mold yourself.

Now, picture this: You’re working on a big project, let's say writing a book. At first, it feels like the project is this massive thing that controls you. But the more you write, the more you realize that the book is taking shape because of your time and effort. You’re not just being swept along by deadlines and word counts—you’re shaping the narrative. Time, in this case, is your collaborator, not your enemy.

This perspective can change your daily life. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the ticking clock, see every moment as a chance to integrate more of your energy and purpose into what you’re doing. Whether it's spending quality time with family, working on a skill, or simply enjoying a hobby, remember that these moments are what make you.

So next time you feel like time is slipping away or overwhelming you, take a step back. Think of yourself as the river, the tiger, and the fire. You’re not just moving through time—time moves through you, and you have the power to shape it. Don’t just watch the clock—be the clock.