There are people in every time and every land who want to stop history in its tracks. They fear the future, mistrust the present, and invoke the security of a comfortable past which, in fact, never existed.

In this quote, Robert Kennedy addresses the tendency of some people to resist change and progress, clinging to an idealized vision of the past. He suggests that there are individuals throughout history who are so fearful of the future and mistrustful of the present that they try to halt the forward momentum of history. These people often seek solace in the idea of a comfortable past, a time that they believe was better or simpler, even though it may never have existed in the way they imagine.

Kennedy highlights that this fear of the future and reliance on a glorified past can prevent society from advancing. By invoking the security of a past that is, in reality, a myth, these individuals try to avoid the challenges and uncertainties of the present and future. Their actions stem from a deep mistrust of change and a reluctance to face the complexities of the modern world.

The quote also speaks to the broader human tendency to idealize the past, often overlooking the hardships and flaws of earlier times. Kennedy points out that the past, as remembered, may not be as perfect as it is made out to be, and progress can only happen if people are willing to confront the present and embrace the future, rather than retreating into a fantasy of what once was.

The origin of this quote comes from Robert Kennedy’s broader philosophy on social and political change. As a prominent advocate for civil rights and social justice, he often spoke about the need to face challenges head-on and to create a better future. His words in this quote encourage people to let go of nostalgia and instead focus on moving forward, despite the uncertainties that the future may bring.