"All water has a perfect memory and is forever trying to get back to where it was"

The essence of this quote lies in the idea that water retains an innate sense of its original state and place, constantly striving to return to it. It’s a poetic way of suggesting that everything has a memory—something that keeps it anchored to its origins, influencing its actions and movements.

Think about it like this: water in a river remembers the path it has carved over time. Even if blocked or diverted, it always finds a way to trickle down, seeking its original course. Historically, this concept has been connected to human experiences and emotions. Toni Morrison, the author who said this, often used water as a metaphor for memories and the past’s pull on the present.

Take a real-life example: the way people return to their hometowns. Imagine someone who grew up in a small seaside village but moved to a big city. Despite the opportunities and excitement of city life, there’s always a part of them drawn back to the salty air and the sound of waves—those memories are entrenched deeply. When they visit, it’s like they’re reconnecting with something fundamental to their being.

So how do you apply this wisdom? Start by recognizing the importance of your own memories and origins. Reflect on your past and see how it shapes your present. Are you ignoring a fundamental part of yourself? Maybe it’s time to revisit those roots and see what they can teach you about your current situation.

Picture this: you’re at a family reunion, surrounded by faces you haven’t seen in years. As you chat and share stories, you realize how much you’ve changed—but also how much you’ve stayed the same. You’re reminded of values and lessons you might have left behind, but are still very much a part of you. It’s like a piece of you that’s been dormant wakes up and remembers its path.

This concept is about authenticity, too. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with new experiences and identities, there’s something grounding about remembering where we come from. It’s not about living in the past, but rather acknowledging it and letting it guide us gently.

In essence, this quote encourages us to be mindful of our origins and the memories that define us. It suggests that no matter how far we wander, there’s a part of us that’s always trying to return to our roots. So, next time you feel lost or disconnected, think of yourself as water—always remembering, always finding your way back.