" You can never predict what the specific shape of your life is going to be, and you won’t really know its general shape until, God willing, you’re advanced in years and you have the time and opportunity to look back in a coherent way and see what your life was about. "
- Kurt Elling

The quote suggests that our lives are unpredictable and take unexpected turns throughout our journey. It implies that we cannot foresee the exact direction or shape our life will take, no matter how carefully we plan or hope for certain outcomes. This means that while we may have aspirations and goals, the actual path we follow might diverge from these expectations due to various circumstances beyond our control.

Delving deeper into the quote's meaning reveals an important insight about human experience and self-reflection. Kurt Elling is pointing out that true understanding of one’s life often comes later in life when there is more time for introspection and a broader perspective on past events. This realization suggests that only after we've lived through significant experiences, successes, and challenges can we begin to piece together the overarching narrative or purpose behind our lives. It encourages us to remain open-minded throughout our lives because the full significance of our actions and decisions might not be immediately apparent but will become clearer over time.

Kurt Elling is an American jazz vocalist and songwriter known for his innovative approach to vocal improvisation in jazz music. Born on September 14, 1967, in Chicago, Illinois, he has won numerous Grammy Awards throughout his career. His work often explores complex themes of life, love, and personal growth, which aligns with the philosophical depth of this particular quote about life's unpredictable nature and the importance of reflection as we age.