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"今天感受到昨天的情感并不是感受,而是记得今天感受到的昨天情感,成为今天活着的尸体,感受昨天已体验并失去的情感。"

Fernando Pessoa
Fernando Pessoa Poet
Translations
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Quote meaning
This quote speaks to the idea that simply re-experiencing an emotion from the past isn’t the same as actually feeling that emotion in the present moment. Instead, it’s more like an echo, a shadow of what once was. Basically, if you’re just remembering how you felt before, you’re not truly alive in the now – you’re kind of like a zombie, stuck in yesterday.

Think about it. Have you ever had a great day and then tried to recreate it later on? Maybe you had an amazing night out with friends – everything clicked, everyone was laughing, and it felt perfect. The next time you all meet up, you might try to recapture that magic. But it’s just not the same. You’re not really feeling it again; you’re chasing a memory, and in doing so, you're not truly embracing the present.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Imagine Sarah, who had a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Paris. She felt pure joy and freedom roaming the city’s charming streets. Fast forward to today, and she’s back in Paris, but she’s not feeling the same thrill. Instead of savoring new experiences, she's constantly comparing everything to her last trip. The cafes don’t seem as quaint, the Eiffel Tower less magical. She’s trapped in her memories, not living the new moments.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? First off, acknowledge that each moment is unique. You can’t step into the same river twice, as they say. Embrace the present for what it is, not what you wish it could be based on the past. If you find yourself constantly reminiscing about how great things were, gently bring your mind back to now. Look around. Find new things to appreciate. It’s about being mindful and fully where you are—right here, right now.

Here’s a little story to bring it home. Picture yourself at a family gathering. Last year’s event was a blast – everyone was dancing, the food was amazing, and you laughed until your stomach hurt. This year, you’re hoping for the same. But Uncle Joe is in a bad mood, the music is different, and it’s raining, so no one’s outside. You start to feel disappointed. But then, you catch yourself. You decide to engage with the moment. You start a new game with the kids, chat with Aunt Mary about her travels, and before you know it, you’re having a really good time. It’s not the same as last year, but it’s real and it’s now.

So, next time you find yourself longing for the way things were, take a breath. Look around. What’s happening right now? What can you appreciate in this moment that’s completely new and fresh? You’ll find that life is richer when you live it fully in the present, rather than trying to resurrect the past.
Related tags
Emotions Existentialism Introspection Life Loss Memory Nostalgia Past Reflection Transience
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