When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
Anthony De MelloRead
Both what you run from-_x000D_ and what you yearn for -_x000D_ are within you.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that our fears and desires are reflections of our inner selves.
Anthony De Mello's quote emphasizes that both our aversions and aspirations stem from within us. It encourages self-reflection, implying that the things we tend to avoid and the things we strive for are deeply rooted in our own psyche. By acknowledging that these feelings are part of ourselves, we can begin to understand our true motivations and develop a healthier relationship with our inner experiences.
In practice
In a personal development seminar, this quote can highlight the importance of self-discovery.
When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Problems only exist in the human mind.
You can’t look too far ahead. Do that and you’ll lose sight of what you’re doing and stumble. I’m not saying you should focus solely on the details right in front of you, mind you. You’ve got to look ahead a bit or else you’ll bump into something. You’ve got to conform to the proper order and at the same time keep an eye out for what’s ahead. That’s critical, no matter what you’re doing.
The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of childhood into maturity.
Analyze yourself. All emotions are reflected in the body and mind. Envy and fear cause the face to pale, love makes it glow.
Only after we can learn to forgive ourselves can we accept others as they are because we don't feel threatened by anything about them which is better than us.
We are Physical, Mental and Spiritual beings. If you don't deal with ALL OF LIFE you're not going to get all that life has to offer.
Learn to be pleased with everything...because it could always be worse, but isn't!
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