Presence
Today's reflection
The present moment is the only moment that ever actually exists — yet most of human suffering arises from mental travel to the past or future. Across traditions, the discipline of presence is understood as both the simplest and most demanding of practices: to fully inhabit where and when you are.
From the sources
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Matthew 6:34
Bible
“The present moment is the only moment available to us, and it is the door to all moments.”
Thich Nhat Hanh, The Miracle of Mindfulness
Buddhism
“Confine yourself to the present.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 8.7
Stoicism
“Past and future veil God from our sight; burn up both of them with fire.”
Rumi, Masnavi
Sufi tradition
“Let the wise man guard his thoughts, for they are difficult to perceive, very subtle, and they rush wherever they list.”
Dhammapada 3.36
Buddhism
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