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The word desire suggests that there is something we do not…

“The word desire suggests that there is something we do not have. If we have everything already, then there can be no desire, for there is nothing left to want. I think that what the Buddha may have been trying to tell us is that we have it all, each of us, all the time; therefore, desire is simply…” quote by Tom Robbins
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“The word desire suggests that there is something we do not have. If we have everything already, then there can be no desire, for there is nothing left to want. I think that what the Buddha may have been trying to tell us is that we have it all, each of us, all the time; therefore, desire is simply unnecessary.”

Tom Robbins

About This Quote

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

Desire arises when we perceive lack; if we see ourselves as already whole, desire becomes unnecessary.

In simple terms: Desire appears when we think we lack something.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate a sense of completeness to reduce unnecessary desire.

Themes

philosophy contentment desire

Mood

contemplative balanced

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • gratitude practice
  • minimalist living
  • creative pursuits
  • coaching sessions

Key Concepts

Buddhism psychology mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is desire always harmful, or can it be constructive?
  • How can we balance contentment with healthy ambition?
A Different Perspective

Desire can also motivate progress and innovation, so eliminating it entirely may limit growth.

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