"La cuestión del ser no es una cuestión de una entidad."

Understanding the essence of existence isn’t about identifying a specific thing or entity. The idea is that "being" isn’t about a tangible object or a definable entity, but rather about the very nature of existence itself. This concept invites us to explore what it means to exist beyond just pointing to a person, place, or thing.

Let’s step into the shoes of the philosopher Martin Heidegger, who brought this idea into the philosophical limelight. Heidegger wasn't interested in just cataloging things that exist. Instead, he wanted to delve into what it means to exist—period. His work emerged in the early 20th century when the world was undergoing massive changes and people were questioning previously held beliefs about life and reality.

Imagine for a moment you’re contemplating your own existence. You’re not just thinking, “I am a teacher,” or “I own a cat.” Those are specific entities. Instead, you begin to wonder about your very being. What does it mean for you to be here, now, experiencing life?

Let’s take a real-life example. Think about the experience of meditating. When you meditate, you aren’t focusing on specific objects around you. You let go of identities and roles you play in life. Instead, you are just being. You might feel the breath going in and out of your lungs, the sensation of your body on the chair, but there’s no specific entity you're focusing on. You're simply in the state of existence.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your day-to-day life? Start by allowing yourself moments of reflection where you’re not fixated on your job title, your possessions, or your relationships. Instead, just exist. Take a walk in nature without your phone. Sit quietly and observe your thoughts without judgment. The idea is to connect with your fundamental being.

Picture this: You’re at a busy coffee shop. People are bustling around, conversations overlap, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee swirls in the air. You sit down with your drink and, for a moment, let go of the to-do lists and the roles you play. Just soak in the experience of being there. The warmth of the cup in your hands, the ambient noise—the very act of being becomes the focus.

By regularly practicing this kind of mindfulness, you begin to appreciate life in a more profound way. You’re not just bouncing from one task to another, identifying yourself with each role. Instead, you connect with the deeper, intangible essence of your existence.

This approach can lead to a more fulfilling life. It helps reduce stress and brings a sense of peace because you're not constantly defining yourself by external entities. You start realizing that your worth and your existence are intrinsic. You become more in tune with the present moment, and that’s a powerful place to be. So next time you find yourself caught up in the hustle and bustle, take a step back. Breathe. Just be. It’s in those moments that you truly understand the essence of being.