Stories of Sheng Zhen Men
How did the saying “If not now, when will you go?” originate?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
I first said it jokingly while crossing a road with an older woman I regarded as a sister during my student years. We were discussing how biographies of great people often contain a famous saying. I said it was not so difficult and I could make one too.
Just then the light turned green and it was time to cross, so I said, ‘If not now, when will you go?’ She laughed because it really was time to go.
Looking back, the words also remind me that if intended actions are continually left until later, when will they begin? Sometimes only afterwards do we repeatedly wonder whether acting then would have changed today.
I shared it with listeners to encourage valuing the present and taking a step. It does not mean rushing ahead without considering circumstances whenever a thought arises. I have also advised asking and thinking clearly about unfamiliar matters. Action matters, and understanding what we are doing matters equally.