It’s true that life can only be understood when we look back upon it. But we have to LIVE life going forwards. And how many of us spend too much time looking back? I first saw this inspiring quote a museum, and I just had to design my own version–with part of the quote backwards! I liked it so much that it’s now hanging on my bedroom wall. Then I thought, Why not share it with everyone?
Now that you’ve seen my design, I have to tell you the story behind putting everything together. You see, I originally thought the whole quote should be backwards. So I did that and proudly showed my husband. He was a bit quiet, struggling for words. Finally, he suggested I design at least some of it “the right way.” And so I played around with it. You wouldn’t think the simple design before you took much effort. Ummm. It actually took much more time than I’d care to admit. But I really like the end result and hope you will too.
How Can You Print Life Can Only Be Understood . . . ?
You can purchase the print here as a download for just $3.00 USD. The size is 8×10, and I offer an extra file with a transparent background so you can print black and white or add any paper color you’d like. More product details are mentioned in the link. So please read them before asking me in the post comments or via email. I like to print my products at Alphagraphics. My print there was just $.74.

This Life Can Only Be Understood Backwards quote is available in my etsy shop as an instant download.

A second file is included with a transparent background. Print black and white, or add an color paper you desire.
If you visit Mrs. Lady Wordsmith on etsy, I have more quotes and products related to family, books, and autism. This quote is my first product, and I have several more to add in the next few days. I don’t know about you, but I often shop from etsy when I’m looking for unique and personalized items, especially gifts. I’ve been a fan for years, and now it’s time I add to the fun.
Soren Kierkgaard Author
A Danish philosopher who lived in the early- to mid-1800s, Soren Kierkgaard shared many inspiring quotes. In fact, lots of them are still floating around today. Upon close inspection of my printable, you’ll see at the bottom that he is attributed. If he were prominent today, an easily recognizable name, I would include his name more boldly. Instead, I have chosen to credit both him and myself in the shadows, so to speak. Instead, the design focus is upon the timeless message shared.
It’s true. Life can only be understood backwards. But let’s not forget to live forwards. I hope you love this printable as much as I do. If you do, I’d love for you to print, pin, and share. Thank you!
Such a true statement, and love the design! I’ve looked back over so many seasons in life and found purpose in the pain of that season. It’s a beautiful thing!
Okay, I love that your husband thought about his feedback before he gave it to you! Love how your design turned out! Such a true statement.
My husband has great advice–most of the time. 🙂 I think I’ll keep him.
Congrats on opening your Etsy shop! I love this quote. It’s something we should all remember – to learn from the past and keep moving forward.
What a great quote and a beautiful printable! Congrats on the etsy shop!
Beautiful print! The backwards words really makes you think and emphasizes the message. I really like this. Do you sell the print in other colors?
Thank you! I’m adding a black-and-white print to the shop.