"En mi principio está mi fin"

When you hear "In my beginning is my end," think about the idea that the start of something contains its own conclusion. It’s a reminder that every journey we embark on is finite, and every new chapter we open will, at some point, close. This idea captures the cyclical nature of life—how beginnings and endings are inherently linked.

This concept has roots in literature and philosophy. T.S. Eliot famously penned it in his poem "East Coker," part of his Four Quartets. During a turbulent period in history—the Second World War—Eliot explored themes of time, continuity, and the eternal cycle of life and death. He was grappling with the uncertainty and impermanence of human existence, reflecting on how everything inevitably moves towards an end, but in a way that also feeds into new beginnings.

Imagine you're planting a tree. You put a tiny seed into the soil with hopes it will grow into something beautiful and strong. As the seed begins to sprout, you nurture it, giving it water and sunlight—much like we nurture the beginnings of any project or relationship. Over the years, it grows tall, providing shade and oxygen. But eventually, it will reach its end. Maybe it will be felled by a storm, or maybe it will simply die as part of its natural life cycle. Yet, in its end, it might drop seeds that start the cycle anew—new beginnings sprouting from the old.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, acknowledge the impermanence of your ventures. Whether it's a career, a creative project, or a relationship, remember that it will have both highs and lows and will eventually conclude. Embrace this truth to savor the present moments more fully. Don’t let the fear of the end overshadow the joy of the beginning. When starting something new, think ahead to its potential conclusion—not to dwell on it, but to appreciate the full arc of its existence.

Picture this: you're starting a new job. The excitement is palpable; you're eager to learn and grow. But along the way, you'll face challenges—maybe difficult projects or office politics. You might even question your decision at times. Fast forward a few years and you might find yourself at a crossroads, ready to move on. The skills and experiences you’ve gained will propel you towards your next beginning. So, while the end of your tenure is bittersweet, it’s also the dawn of something fresh. Each end should be seen as a transition rather than a finality.

Think of a relationship. You fall in love, deeply and passionately. There are nights filled with wonder and days that seem perfect. Yet, not all relationships are destined to last forever. When it ends, it’s painful—no denying that. But the end is wrapped up in the beginning; the love and memories you created don’t vanish. They transform you, preparing your heart for future love. Every end paves the way for a new beginning, often richer and deeper because of what you’ve learned and felt before.

So, next time you start something new, remember this—it's a journey with an eventual destination. Instead of fearing the end, let it motivate you to live the beginning and middle parts more authentically and passionately. After all, isn’t life all about the moments in between? Let them be full of purpose and joy, knowing that each step forward is part of a grand cycle that begins anew with every end.