When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
Anthony De MelloRead
When the eye is unobstructed, the result is sight. When the ear is unobstructed, the result is hearing. When the mind is unobstructed the result is truth. When the heart is unobstructed, the result is joy and love.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of having an unobstructed perception in order to achieve clarity and genuine emotions.
Anthony De Mello suggests that when our senses and faculties are free from distractions and obstructions, we can experience the world more clearly and fully. Unobstructed sight leads to understanding, unobstructed hearing allows us to listen deeply, and an unobstructed mind fosters truth, while an unobstructed heart enables joy and love. This quote encourages individuals to clear away distractions in order to connect with their true feelings and perceptions.
Themes
SightHearingTruthJoyLovePerception
In practice
Example use cases
You could use this quote during a workshop on mindfulness to illustrate the importance of being present.
More from Anthony De Mello
All quotes →Perfect love casts out fear. Where there is love there are no demands, no expectations, no dependency. I do not demand that you make me happy; my happiness does not lie in you. If you were to leave me, I will not feel sorry for myself; I enjoy your company immensely, but I do not cling.
Anthony De MelloRead
The master never seemed to have his fill of gazing at his firstborn child. "What do you want him to be when he grows up?" someone asked. "Outrageously happy," said the master.
Anthony De MelloRead
The genius of a composer is found in the notes of his music; but analyzing the notes will not reveal his genius. The poet's greatness is contained in his words; yet the study of his words will not disclose his inspiration. God reveals himself in creation; but scrutinize creation as minutely as you wish, you will not find God, any more than you will find the soul through careful examination of your body.
Anthony De MelloRead
What is a loving heart? A loving heart is sensitive to the whole of life, to all persons; a loving heart doesn't harden itself to any persons or things.
Anthony De MelloRead
Problems only exist in the human mind.
Anthony De MelloRead
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