"Mira la luna en el cielo, no la que está en el lago."

Sometimes we get so caught up chasing reflections that we forget to see things as they truly are. The moon in the lake might look beautiful, but it's not the real moon. It’s just a reflection. This quote urges us to focus on the genuine article rather than the illusions or distractions that can mislead us.

Imagine you’re at a crossroads in life, deciding between a career you love and one that seems perfect on paper but doesn't excite you. The job with the shiny paycheck and prestige? That’s the moon in the lake. It looks perfect, but it’s not what truly matters. The real moon, the one that represents your passion and genuine happiness, is what you should aim for.

This quote can be traced back to ancient wisdom, and it’s something philosophers and thinkers have pondered for centuries. It speaks to the human tendency to be dazzled by appearances, to be taken in by what looks good rather than what is good. It’s a reminder to dig deeper, to look beyond the surface and find the truth.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Take the story of Jana, a high-achieving student who had her heart set on becoming a doctor because it’s what her family wanted. She aced her exams, got into a top medical school, and everyone admired her. But, inside, she felt empty. The reflection of success in her parents’ eyes was not her own. It wasn’t until she took a gap year, traveled, and discovered her love for teaching that she saw the real moon. She switched her major to education and found joy in shaping young minds. Her happiness wasn’t in the reflection of what others wanted for her but in what she truly wanted.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying what really matters to you. Separate the reflection from reality. Are you chasing something because it’s what others expect, or because it looks good on Instagram? Take time to reflect — no pun intended — on your true desires. Meditate, journal, or talk it out with a close friend. Get to the core of what you genuinely want.

Imagine this: You’re at a party, and everyone’s talking about their glamorous vacations. You feel a twinge of envy because your last trip was a quiet weekend in the mountains. But think about it. Did you enjoy that weekend? Did it recharge your batteries? Maybe the moon in the sky for you is tranquility and nature, while the moon in the lake is the glitzy, high-adventure vacation that looks impressive but leaves you feeling more tired than before.

Next time you’re faced with a decision, big or small, pause. Ask yourself — is this the real moon I’m looking at, or just its reflection? It’s a simple question, but it can shift your whole perspective. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. After all, the real moon is always there, even when it’s hidden behind clouds. And trust me, it's worth the effort to find it.