Those who stand at the threshold of life always waiting for the right time to change are like the man who stands at the bank of a river waiting for the water to pass so he can cross on dry land.

This quote by Joseph B. Wirthlin, "Those who stand at the threshold of life always waiting for the right time to change are like the man who stands at the bank of a river waiting for the water to pass so he can cross on dry land," is a powerful metaphor about procrastination, fear of change, and the illusion of perfect timing. Wirthlin warns against the tendency to delay action while waiting for ideal conditions, suggesting that those who do so may find themselves perpetually stuck, just like someone waiting for a river to run dry before crossing.

The comparison to a man waiting for dry land to cross a river emphasizes the impossibility of achieving progress without risk or effort. Rivers are meant to be crossed while flowing; similarly, life’s challenges and transitions must be faced even amidst uncertainty. Wirthlin’s message encourages courage, faith, and initiative—a reminder that growth and transformation come through movement, not hesitation.

Joseph B. Wirthlin, a leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often spoke on themes of gratitude, faith, and personal development. His teachings blended spiritual insight with practical wisdom, urging individuals to live with purpose rather than passivity. This quote likely stems from one of his sermons encouraging people to embrace change and act decisively, even when the future feels unclear.

Ultimately, Wirthlin’s metaphor is a timeless call to overcome the paralysis of waiting. There will rarely be a "perfect" time to start a new journey or make a meaningful change. The courage to act, despite the presence of challenges, is what allows individuals to cross the rivers in their lives and move toward fulfillment, progress, and self-discovery.