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Nothing can be given or taken away; nothing has been added…

“Nothing can be given or taken away; nothing has been added or subtracted; nothing increased or diminished. We stand on the same shore before the same mighty ocean. The ocean of love. There it is - in perpetuum. As much in a broken blossom, the sound of a waterfall, the swoop of a carrion bird as…” quote by Henry Miller
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““Nothing can be given or taken away; nothing has been added or subtracted; nothing increased or diminished. We stand on the same shore before the same mighty ocean. The ocean of love. There it is - in perpetuum. As much in a broken blossom, the sound of a waterfall, the swoop of a carrion bird as in the thunderous artillery of the prophet. We move with eyes shut and ears stopped; we smash walls where doors are waiting to open to the touch; we grope for ladders, forgetting that we have wings; we pray as if God were deaf and blind, as if He were in a space. No wonder the angels in our midst are unrecognizable. One day it will be pleasant to remember these things.””

Henry Miller

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote reflects on the constancy of existence and love, urging awareness of inner freedom despite external constraints.

In simple terms: Life is constant; love endures; we often ignore our own abilities.

Key Takeaway

Recognize inner freedom and love.

Themes

existence love awareness

Mood

contemplative poetic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • meditation
  • creative work
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy spirituality self‑realization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you awaken to your inner wings?
  • What does love mean in your daily life?
A Different Perspective

Human tendency to overlook innate potential limits growth.

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