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"El alma que está apegada a cualquier cosa, por mucho bien que haya en ello, no llegará a la libertad de la unión divina."

Meister Eckhart
Meister Eckhart Theologian
Translations
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Quote meaning
When we cling to something, no matter how good or beautiful it might be, it can prevent us from reaching a state of true freedom and deeper connection with the divine. Imagine it like this: if your hands are full, you can’t grasp anything new or bigger. The quote is essentially saying that our attachments, even to good things, can be limitations.

Historically, this concept is often tied to spiritual traditions that emphasize detachment as a path to enlightenment or divine union. Think of monks who give up worldly possessions. It’s not because those things are bad, but because the very act of holding on to them can be a stumbling block to their spiritual journey. They believed that by letting go, they made space for a greater connection with the divine.

Let's take a real-life example to make this practical. Picture a dedicated musician who loves playing the guitar. It's their passion and brings them joy. But if their identity and self-worth become entirely wrapped up in their ability to play, they might start fearing failure or rejection. They avoid taking risks, and their creative growth stalls. It's not the music itself that’s the problem—it’s the attachment to it. By loosening the grip and embracing a mindset of growth and openness, the musician can experiment, innovate, and reach new heights in their craft.

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our own lives? Start by identifying areas where you might be too attached. Maybe it’s a job, a relationship, or even a hobby. Ask yourself: if this were taken away, would I feel lost or incomplete? That’s a sign of attachment. Work on fostering a sense of self that isn’t tied to those things. Meditate, journal, or engage in activities that broaden your perspective and help you find inner peace independent of external factors.

Imagine Sarah, a young professional climbing the corporate ladder. She’s got her eyes on that promotion, and she puts everything into it. Late nights at the office, skipping social events—her job becomes her world. One day, she gets passed over for the promotion. She’s devastated, feeling like all her efforts were for nothing. But then she remembers the essence of this quote. She starts to realize her worth isn’t tied to her job title. She begins to explore other interests, reconnects with friends and family, and finds new passions. Gradually, she discovers a more balanced, fulfilling life. She still loves her work, but she's no longer enslaved by it.

By sharing Sarah's story, we can see that detaching doesn’t mean not caring. It’s about caring in a way that’s healthy and liberating. It’s like holding a butterfly—lightly enough so it can fly away, yet still appreciating its beauty. In our own lives, let's strive to hold onto things lightly, appreciating their value but not letting them define us. It’s in this balance that we find true freedom and a deeper connection to the divine, or simply to our most authentic selves.
Related tags
Attachment Detachment Freedom Inner peace Liberty Soul Spiritual growth Spirituality Transcendence
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