The Lie We Live - Alan Watts on the Illusion of Time

True Meaning7 minutes read

Life's progression from kindergarten to college is discussed, highlighting the perpetual pursuit of future goals and achievements. The text emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment for true awakening and fulfillment, rather than solely focusing on future success.

Insights

  • Individuals often find themselves continuously pursuing future goals and achievements, despite reaching significant milestones, leading to a sense of unfulfillment and a perpetual desire for more success.
  • The text underscores the importance of being fully present in the current moment, as true awakening and fulfillment are found in embracing the present rather than solely focusing on future aspirations, drawing inspiration from the wisdom of Buddha.

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Recent questions

  • How does the text describe life progression?

    From kindergarten to college, emphasizing future goals.

  • What is the concept of time explored in the text?

    Humans as "time-binding animals" with chronic anxiety.

  • How does the text depict living solely for the future?

    Likened to a donkey chasing a carrot on a stick.

  • What does the text suggest about true awakening and fulfillment?

    Comes from fully participating in the present moment.

  • How does the text view the pursuit of future success?

    Often leads to feeling unchanged and unfulfilled.

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Summary

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"Life's Pursuit: From Future Goals to Present"

  • The text discusses the progression of life from kindergarten to college, emphasizing the constant pursuit of future goals and achievements.
  • It highlights the realization that despite reaching various milestones in life, individuals often feel unchanged and unfulfilled, leading to a perpetual desire for future success.
  • The concept of time is explored, with humans being described as "time-binding animals" due to their ability to plan based on past experiences, leading to chronic anxiety about the future.
  • The text delves into the idea that living solely for the future results in missing out on the present moment, likening it to a donkey chasing a carrot on a stick.
  • It concludes by suggesting that true awakening and fulfillment come from fully participating in the present moment, drawing parallels to the wisdom of Buddha who was considered awakened by being completely present.
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