The saying contrasts external circumstances with inner character. What has already happened and what may happen in the future are described as less important than the qualities a person carries within, such as judgement, resilience, courage and conviction. Its central idea is that inner resources can shape how people respond to both past experience and future uncertainty.

The wording is often attributed to Emerson, but no reliable source in his published works has been established for this exact quotation, so the attribution should be treated cautiously. The sentiment is nevertheless consistent with themes closely associated with his writing, particularly self-reliance and trust in individual character. Taken on its own terms, the statement does not mean that circumstances are insignificant. Rather, it emphasises that personal character and inner capacity can remain important sources of agency when circumstances cannot be fully controlled.