Let us act on what we have, since we have not what we wish.

The venerable John Henry Newman, a man of faith and profound thought, once declared: “Let us act on what we have, since we have not what we wish.” These words carry the weight of timeless truth, speaking to the universal condition of humankind. Life rarely grants us perfect circumstances or flawless tools to work with. Often, we stand in the midst of uncertainty, our hearts yearning for resources, clarity, or strength we do not possess. Newman’s teaching is a call to courage: to move forward boldly, using what is at hand, rather than waiting endlessly for ideal conditions that may never come.

To act on what we have is to embrace the present moment. It is to recognize that even the smallest step, taken with sincerity and determination, has power. Many delay their journeys, saying, “When I have more knowledge, more wealth, more strength, then I will begin.” Yet such delay leads only to stagnation and regret. By contrast, those who work with what little they have often discover hidden resources within themselves and inspire others to do the same. Wishing, without action, builds castles in the clouds; acting, even imperfectly, builds lasting foundations.

History offers a shining example in the life of Mahatma Gandhi. At the dawn of India’s struggle for freedom, Gandhi possessed no armies, no wealth, no political office. What he had was his vision of nonviolent resistance and the courage to act upon it. Though he did not have the strength to match the British Empire, he began with what was in his hands—a spinning wheel, a march, a word of truth. Over time, these humble beginnings grew into a movement that shook the world. Had Gandhi waited for perfect conditions, India’s liberation might never have come.

This truth is also seen in the story of Abraham Lincoln, who led the United States through its darkest hour. When he assumed the presidency, Lincoln faced division, war, and limited resources. He did not wish for an easier task or a more united nation. Instead, he acted with the tools available—his words, his convictions, and the courage of a few allies. Through these, he forged a path to freedom and unity, proving that greatness is born not from ideal circumstances, but from resolute action in the midst of imperfection.

Let this teaching be passed to future generations: do not wait for the perfect moment to begin your work. The world is never perfect, and our wishes will always outpace reality. But by acting on what we have, we awaken hidden strengths and set into motion forces greater than we imagine. As Newman wisely teaches, the journey of a thousand miles begins not with the perfect step, but with the step taken today. Through courage and faith, what we have becomes enough to shape the destiny of the world.