Austin's Pensieve: Won't you come out to play?

Prudence.
Prudence.
Yes, Prudence.
Can I have the definition?
Prudence. Foresight in making appropriate decisions and judgement. Also a name popular in 17th century England.
May I have the language of origin?
Latin to French to English.
Prudence. Does the word come from the Latin root, "pruden", meaning "with care and consideration into the future?
Yes, that is correct.
Could you use it in a sentence?
We all must grow in wisdom and prudence.
Could you use it in a song?
Well, the Beatles did, with "Dear Prudence" released in 1968.
(Aren't you glad I didn't do another spelling bee centered post? =P)

The motto at my high school, Sir John A. Macdonald CI, was "Prudentia and Scientia", which translates to "vision and knowledge". The motto was the theme for the Valedictorian candidate speeches and was mentioned throughout our commencement ceremony.

I like the word prudentia. Vision. Good Judgement. Wisdom.
Prudence is also one of the seven Christian virtues.
But nowadays, prudence has a bit of a negative ring to it. While prudence still carries a notion of careful thought, the word is sometimes associated with "self-interest". Furthermore, prudence can be seen as too much of a good thing - one who is prudent is frugal, or too rational. These negative connotations are best seen in quotes:

"Prudence is an attitude that keeps life safe, but does not often make it happy."
   - Samuel Johnson, 18th century British author

"The prudence of the best heads is often defeated by the tenderness of the best of hearts."
   - Henry Fielder, 18th century British novelist

"Prudence and love are inconsistent; in proportion as the last increases, the other decreases."
   - Francois XIII, French Duke (of La Rochefoucauld)

While prudence continues to remain a word linked with great wisdom and forethought, in a different context, one can be too cautious. In times of trouble or despair, we often want to hide from our fears, away from the troubles of the world. Though you're safe in hiding, caution may prevent you from taking some risks in life that will bring you to new opportunities that show you the beauty of the world.

The third quote reminds me of "Across the Universe", where prudence is illustrated through one of the characters, appropriately named Prudence, who struggles with the lack of attention from her love interests throughout the movie. And so, here are the clips, the Beatles original is on the left. On the right is Dear Prudence from "Across the Universe", definitely one of my favourite tracks from the movie. In my opinion, one of the best Beatles cheering up songs as well. Enjoy!