The present is, of course, a preparation for the future; but if it’s not appreciated for what it is, one squanders life away, always ahead of one’s self, looking for the arrival of some “starting line” where “real life” will begin. This is real life. No external gate-keeper, success, or validation will suddenly change that. The attitude is internal. The only way to change is to will it. Otherwise the present will always be merely ashes cooling in one’s mouth, as we wait for something better.