From my earliest youth, I have known that while one is obliged to plan with care the stages of one's journey, one is entitled to dream, and keep dreaming, of its destination. A man may feel as old as his years yet as young as his dreams.

In this quote, Shimon Peres reflects on the balance between planning and dreaming in life. He acknowledges the importance of carefully planning the steps and stages of one's journey, but also emphasizes that everyone has the right to dream about the end result, the destination, no matter how far off it may be. Peres suggests that dreams are a vital part of maintaining hope, ambition, and a sense of purpose, even in the face of life's challenges and realities.

The quote also explores the idea that age is not solely defined by the number of years one has lived. Peres argues that a person's youthfulness can be tied not to physical age, but to the vibrancy and passion of their dreams. A person may feel as old as the number of years they've accumulated, but their inner vitality is determined by how they continue to pursue and hold onto their dreams, regardless of how much time has passed.

The origin of this quote stems from Peres' long and varied career in politics and leadership, particularly as the President and Prime Minister of Israel. Throughout his life, Peres advocated for vision, hope, and the power of dreams in both the personal and political realms. He was known for his idealism and belief in creating a better future, even when the road to that future seemed difficult or uncertain.

Ultimately, Peres’ statement serves as a reminder that while life's journey requires planning and practicality, dreams remain an essential force for keeping the spirit young and the future filled with possibilities. It underscores the idea that one's inner drive and youthfulness come not just from physical energy but from an ongoing connection to dreams and aspirations that keep a person moving forward.