As an avid reader of psychology, theology, and philosophy, I found this particular quote both transcendental and moving.
When we look at a situation going on in our lives, what we see is a combination of past events and present expectations. The images that come to mind catalyze our deepest fears, and as a consequence we go into fight or flight mode emotionally. Being that emotions are the epicenter of our spiritual existence, it is the one thing we guard with hyper-aggression. Probably more than our own physical safety. For example, sometimes we fear failure, so much so that we prevent ourselves from even taking the first step toward accomplishing a goal. We decide that procrastination is a better method for dealing with the fear, and rationalize the putting off of certain goals by claiming we are unable to accomplish it; all before even understanding what it may ask of us to complete. Yet, we risk driving recklessly, under the influence, at night, in the rain. The odds of physical harm are ten times more likely to become a part of our experience than a failure that will end up crippling our dreams for the rest of our lives.
If risk is inevitable for acquiring satisfaction, why then is emotional risk hindered by irrational phobias? Fears develop as we attain experiences-- usually unpleasant ones -- and we make an attempt to protect ourselves from repeating that undesirable outcome again. Which is good, because it shows that we have learned something in the process. That we have learned not to repeat the same mistake. The downside is due to becoming hyper vigilant about not succumbing to the situations that have caused us such pain in the past. Usually this extreme need to protect only serves to draw in the undesired outcome. That which we fear the most, almost always ends up unfolding before our eyes.
So let not the evidence of your reality, mimic the perspective of your perceived past, and instead, live simply; in the moment.
