"Being is the furthest and emptiest and at the same time the nearest and fullest."

The essence of the quote is that existence, or "being," is both the most distant and empty concept, and simultaneously the closest and most fulfilling. It sounds paradoxical, right? But think about it. Being encompasses everything and nothing at once. It's a profound way of saying that existence itself is a vast, open concept that can feel out of reach and vague, but when we truly grasp it, it becomes intensely personal and rich with meaning.

Historically, this kind of thinking is deeply rooted in existential philosophy, where philosophers like Heidegger and Sartre explored the nature of existence. They were grappling with the big questions of what it means to be and how we find meaning in an often seemingly indifferent universe. This quote captures that duality—how being can feel like an abstract concept one moment and the next, something intimately connected to our daily lives.

Let’s make it more tangible with an example. Imagine you’re hiking up a mountain. At the base, the summit looks so far off—almost unreal in its distance. The peak is like being itself: far and empty. Yet, as you climb, you become more engaged with the experience. The closer you get, the more you notice—the crunch of gravel underfoot, the smell of pine trees, the rhythm of your breath. Reaching the top, you feel a sense of achievement and presence that is incredibly full and near. That’s the paradox of being: it starts as a distant concept but becomes deeply personal and full as you engage with it.

Here’s how you can apply this wisdom in your life. When you feel overwhelmed by the vastness of life or the seeming emptiness of existence, start by engaging more deeply with your immediate experiences. Focus on the small, tangible moments. Notice the details around you, and allow yourself to be fully present. This will help the vastness of being feel more accessible and rich.

Now, picture this: You’re at a family gathering, and you’re feeling a bit disconnected. Everyone’s chatting, but you’re lost in your thoughts, feeling like you’re just going through the motions. Suddenly, your niece runs up and tugs at your sleeve, asking you to play. You kneel down, join in her game, and—bam!—you’re drawn back into the moment, feeling connected and alive. What felt distant and empty becomes near and full, just through the act of engaging with what's right in front of you.

Remember, being isn't something you have to search for—it’s already there. You just need to tune into it. Life's richness comes from these engagements, from being present in each moment, no matter how small. So next time you’re caught in the vastness, take a step closer. Notice the details. Engage fully. You might just find that what seemed empty is actually the fullest thing of all.