The only sense that is common in the long run, is the sense of change and we all instinctively avoid it.

This quote by E. B. White, the acclaimed American essayist and author of classics like Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little, speaks to the paradox of change as both inevitable and uncomfortable. When White says, “The only sense that is common in the long run, is the sense of change,” he suggests that change is the only true constant in human experience. Everything else—trends, beliefs, even common sense—can shift over time, but change itself remains the one enduring force.

Yet, White points out a deeply human contradiction: although change is unavoidable, “we all instinctively avoid it.” This highlights our natural tendency to seek stability, routine, and familiarity, even when we intellectually understand that adaptation is necessary. People often resist change because it threatens their comfort zones or forces them to confront the unknown, despite knowing that transformation is part of life’s fabric.

The origin of this quote reflects White’s keen observation of society and human behavior during the early to mid-20th century—a time marked by significant technological, cultural, and political change. Through his essays and stories, White frequently explored the tension between tradition and progress, often blending humor, wisdom, and melancholy in his reflections on modern life.

Ultimately, the quote serves as both an observation and a gentle critique. White reminds us that while change is natural and persistent, our instinctive resistance to it often holds us back. By acknowledging this tendency, he invites readers to reflect on how embracing change—rather than fleeing from it—might lead to greater growth, resilience, and understanding.