Now is New
“We must
unlearn the constellations
to see
the stars.”
I’ll let this quote from poet Jack Gilbert mostly speak for itself (see the full poem, Tear It Down, here) and only add that, in order to see anything as it truly is Now, we must see through our memory-based filters of the past (full of labels, categories, expectations, etc.). Now is New in every instant, and all objects point to this awareness if we can see their living shape and color underneath the familiar label we use to represent them (e.g., currently looking at this screen without the label “screen”). This applies to every thing, including other people, and through openness to this Newness in everything, experiences initially perceived as problems often transform into opportunities.
What has become
a familiar constellation
in your life?
How might you
see the stars,
Now,
for the first time?
***On a final note, I’ve added an option at the end of these blog posts for you to make a small contribution if you’d like. Please only do so if you feel moved to, and know that your donation goes directly toward helping me continue to provide affordable individual guidance as well as create new content, such as this blog, in the name of increased well-being and reduced psychological suffering. One particular project I’m currently working on is a book that encapsulates my psychological, philosophical, and spiritual perspective on getting to know oneself deeply and getting out of one’s own way. If you’re so inclined, your contribution would support these efforts and would be greatly appreciated (click the button below to donate). Thank you for being here!