Each moment is defined by a multitude of histories, the past constantly converging upon us, perpetually decaying and reforming itself on the steady pulse of now, now, now, now.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the idea that every moment is shaped by our past experiences and influences, which continuously change as we live in the present.
Dee Rees’s quote captures the complexity of time and existence, suggesting that each moment is not isolated but rather a convergence of countless histories that shape our perception. The notion of the past 'perpetually decaying and reforming' highlights the fluid nature of memory and experience, implying that our current reality is a dynamic interplay between what has been and what is, as we navigate the continuous flow of time.
In practice
In a discussion about mindfulness, this quote illustrates the importance of being present and acknowledging our past.
As the eldest son of an Alabama sharecropper family, I was constantly troubled by a collage of North American southern behaviors and notions in reference to the inhumanity of people. There were questions that I did not know how to ask but could, in my young, unsophisticated way, articulate a series of answers.
Everybody wants to enjoy heaven after they die, but they don't want to be heavenly-minded while they live.
I think that when we take the long view, the notion that some people are deemed less worthy of being able to move - to not have the right to cross borders - over time, that's going to seem as outmoded and as unfair, really, as racial discrimination or other kinds of discrimination.
Far from the madding crowd's ignoble strife Their sober wishes never learn'd to stray; Along the cool sequester'd vale of life They kept the noiseless tenor of their way.
Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill! You knew, didn’t you? I’m part of you? Close, close, close! I’m the reason why it’s no go? Why things are what they are?
[T]o preserve the republican form and principles of our Constitution and cleave to the salutary distribution of powers which that [the Constitution] has established . . . are the two sheet anchors of our Union. If driven from either, we shall be in danger of foundering.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.