From now until the end of time no one else will ever see life

In the fleeting expanse of time, there lies a profound truth that speaks to the core of human existence — the realization that our perspective on life is entirely unique. Christopher Morley’s words, “From now until the end of time no one else will ever see life with my eyes, and I mean to make the best of my chance,” echo with the wisdom that each of us carries a singular perspective, a personal lens through which we view the world. This insight is both a privilege and a responsibility, for it calls us to fully embrace the opportunity we have to live with purpose and meaning, to make the best of the chance given to us in this fleeting moment.

The ancients too, recognized the singularity of human experience, for no two lives are ever the same. The Greek philosophers, particularly Socrates, understood that each individual’s path is shaped by their unique combination of choices, circumstances, and perspectives. Socrates taught that the pursuit of wisdom required the individual to embrace their own existence and to seek the truth through their own eyes, not simply by conforming to societal norms or accepted doctrines. Socrates’ life was an embodiment of this principle — his method of questioning and self-examination was rooted in his understanding that only by truly seeing the world through his own eyes could he ever hope to understand the human condition.

Consider the story of Alexander the Great, whose vision of conquest shaped the course of history. His worldview was formed not just by the people around him, but by his own experiences, his own interpretations of the world. As Alexander carved out his empire, he brought together a diverse collection of cultures, each with their own perspectives, yet it was his vision that guided the forces of history. He understood that the world, with all its chaos and beauty, had to be viewed through one’s own unique lens, and that history would only be made by those who seized the opportunity to act boldly according to their own insights.

Similarly, Leonardo da Vinci, the great Renaissance polymath, exemplified the power of seeing the world through one's own eyes. Da Vinci did not just accept the world as it was presented to him; he sought to understand it in new ways, to look beyond the surface of things and challenge the conventions of his time. His art, his scientific discoveries, and his inventions were all born from the conviction that his perspective could bring something new and revolutionary into the world. Through his eyes, the world was transformed, for he believed that the singular vision of one man could change the very course of history. Da Vinci’s commitment to his chance to see the world differently became his legacy, proving that personal perspective is not a limitation but a gift that has the power to shape the future.

In our own lives, the challenge presented by Morley’s words is clear: we must embrace our unique perspective, our individual view of the world, and make the most of the opportunity to live authentically. Too often, we are tempted to conform, to blend in, or to follow the expectations set by others. Yet, as Morley suggests, it is only by seeing the world through our own eyes, by owning our vision and our experiences, that we can truly live with purpose. We are all given a chance to express our unique view, to offer something that only we can offer to the world, whether through art, leadership, service, or simply by living a life true to our values and truths.

The lesson here is a call to action. It is a reminder that life is not something to be passively observed but something to be actively shaped and lived according to our own vision. The world waits for no one, and the time to act is always now. Like Alexander or da Vinci, we must recognize that our actions, grounded in our unique perspective, have the potential to leave a mark on the world. We must not wait for permission to live fully or to act boldly, but instead, step forward with the confidence that our individuality is both a blessing and a responsibility.

In practical terms, this means taking the time to reflect on what truly matters to us and how we want to contribute to the world. It means seeking opportunities to express our individuality, to pursue passions that ignite our soul, and to share our unique vision with others. Just as Socrates questioned the world to uncover its deeper truths, and Leonardo created with a boldness fueled by his singular vision, so too must we embrace our chance to shape our lives in alignment with our deepest beliefs. In doing so, we will not only live with meaning but inspire others to do the same.

Let us, then, live fully and boldly, knowing that the view we have of the world is unique, and that through it, we have the power to make a difference. By seizing our chance, we embrace the power of perspective — a gift that, when fully realized, has the ability to transform not only our lives but the world around us. Make the most of your chance, for your eyes are the only ones through which you can truly see, and in your vision, lies the potential to change everything.