This is a very simple, clear and self-explanatory proverb. Time and tide symbolise valuable opportunity. Time and tide are natural phenomena. Like other agents of nature, they too have no consideration and regard for any individual. They are beyond the control of human hands. Man finds himself helpless before them. This proverb is a lesson to all of us. It lays emphasis on the desirability of our preparedness to make the best use of an opportunity that presents itself to us. We should, therefore, remain vigilant, because even the slightest carelessness on our part may result in missing a great opportunity in life resulting in colossal loss. No amount of repentance would compensate the loss caused by such a failure.
Opportunities are rare. If availed of, they may prove a boon in one’s life and may also ruin one’s life if it is missed
Then where is the problem? Actually problem exists in time management. For instance, when students have time, they waste it in unnecessary discussions, fantasies and student politics etc. but when examination comes nearer they start studying and complain for time short as they could not use the time left in a proper manner. Here a saying comes to mind, Time is very demanding. It will not stand still for even second. A lost second is a lost second. Time is never ending. So it is best to make the best use of the time we have. Opportunities will not wait for us nor will they come again. The success of life depends upon making use of the time to its best advantage. Slackness on our part may cost us heavily.
Timely and prompt action can gain a lot. Time is free but it is priceless. We can’t own it, but we can use it. We can’t keep it, but we can spend it. Once we have lost it, we can never get it back. It is sure and certain that time is like a river. As the current of river flows ahead and never comes back. The same is with time. Once lost it can’t be regained. The time and tide is the same. The rise and fall of the sea happen twice daily. When it is time, the tide always comes whatever the situation is and we can’t stop it. So that maxim emphasizes that people cannot stop the passing of time and thus should not delay doing things.
The value of this maxim is also seen even in fields that do not demand the expenditure of money. Students neglect their studies when their classes are going on. They think that their examination is far-off, and so postpone their studies to a couple of weeks or months before the date. Such students find themselves in grave difficulties. We must use our precious time meaningfully. The same applies to our health. If we take care of our health in time we need not suffer incurable diseases at old age. If we have slight indigestion or a mild attack of illness we must take appropriate action at the proper time. Otherwise we will find ourselves in the grip of serious illness which will mean much suffering and expense later on. Another famous maxim goes, “a stitch in time saves nine”. It is important not to misuse time and we should try our best before the available time is over
“Time is short, not for rest, think your aim and do your best”.
