The phrase you mentioned is often attributed to the concept of time. The saying goes:
"Time: When you have it, you waste it, and when you don't have it, you suffer."
This quote highlights the paradoxical nature of time and the way people perceive and use it. When individuals have an abundance of time, they may sometimes take it for granted and squander it on unimportant or unproductive activities, leading to a sense of wasting the precious resource that time represents. On the other hand, when individuals are pressed for time, facing deadlines or busy schedules, they may experience stress and suffering due to the lack of time to accomplish everything they need or want to do.
The saying serves as a reminder of the importance of managing time effectively, valuing its significance, and making the most out of the time available to lead a fulfilling and productive life. It encourages people to be mindful of how they use their time, prioritize their activities, and make meaningful choices to avoid both wasting and suffering due to time constraints.