It is a sign of a vigorous unselfish nature, as egotism is of a narrow and selfish one; and to begin life with egotism and self-sufficiency is fatal to all breadth and vigour of character.

Life, in such a case, would be like a year in which there was no spring.
Without a generous seedtime, there will be an unflowering summer and an unproductive harvest.

And youth is the springtime of life, in which, if there be not a fair share of enthusiasm, little will be attempted, and still less done.

It also considerably helps the working quality, inspiring confidence and hope, and carrying one through the dry details of business and duty with cheerfulness and joy.
"It is the due admixture of romance and reality," said Sir Henry Lawrence, "that best carries a man through life...

The quality of romance or enthusiasm is to be valued as an energy imparted to the human mind to prompt and sustain its noblest efforts." Sir Henry always urged upon young men, not that they should repress enthusiasm, but sedulously cultivate and direct the feeling, as one implanted for wise and noble purposes.