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The past is already gone, the future is not yet here. There's only one moment for you to live, and that is the present moment
Gautama Buddha
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

This quote emphasizes the importance of living in the present, suggesting that the past is unchangeable and the future is uncertain. By anchoring ourselves in the present, we can fully experience life and appreciate each moment without being burdened by regret or anxiety.

Themes

PresentMomentLifeBuddhismMindfulness

In practice

Example use cases

In a mindfulness workshop, I shared this quote to emphasize the importance of being present in our daily lives.

More from Gautama Buddha

Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
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The tongue like a sharp knife ... Kills without drawing blood.
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