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When we are alone on a starlit night, when by chance we…

“When we are alone on a starlit night, when by chance we see the migrating birds in autumn descending on a grove of junipers to rest and eat; when we see children in a moment when they are really children, when we know love in our own hearts; or when, like the Japanese poet, Basho, we hear an old…” quote by Thomas Merton
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“When we are alone on a starlit night, when by chance we see the migrating birds in autumn descending on a grove of junipers to rest and eat; when we see children in a moment when they are really children, when we know love in our own hearts; or when, like the Japanese poet, Basho, we hear an old frog land in a quiet pond with a solitary splash - at such times the awakening, the turning inside out of all values, the "newness," the emptiness and the purity of vision that make themselves evident, all these provide a glimpse of the cosmic dance.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

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

Experiencing simple, natural moments can dissolve ordinary values, revealing a pure, cosmic perspective.

In simple terms: Simple moments reveal deeper truth.

Key Takeaway

Notice and cherish quiet, natural experiences.

Themes

nature spirituality perception beauty

Mood

reverent wonderful

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • watching birds
  • children playing
  • listening to nature
  • quiet contemplation

Key Concepts

transcendence mindfulness cosmic unity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you create space for these moments?
  • What does “newness” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Such moments may be fleeting and hard to sustain in daily life.

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