"In skating over thin ice our safety is in our speed"

This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a metaphor for taking dangers in life. It suggests that when we are confronted with a difficult situation, the best way to guarantee our safety is to act rapidly and decisively. This is due to the fact that if we take too long to decide, the scenario may become more harmful. The metaphor of skating over thin ice is used to highlight the precariousness of the situation. The thin ice represents the risks we take and the speed of our actions is our safety. This quote encourages us to take threats in life, however to do so with care and speed. It advises us that when we are faced with a difficult situation, the very best method to ensure our security is to act quickly and decisively.