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Bars Quote by Anthony de Mello

“...As the great Confucius said, "The one who would be in constant happiness must frequently change." Flow. But we keep looking back, don't we? We cling to things in the past and cling to things in the present...Do you want to enjoy a symphony? Don't hold on to a few bars of the music. Don't hold…” quote by Anthony de Mello
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“...As the great Confucius said, "The one who would be in constant happiness must frequently change." Flow. But we keep looking back, don't we? We cling to things in the past and cling to things in the present...Do you want to enjoy a symphony? Don't hold on to a few bars of the music. Don't hold on to a couple of notes. Let them pass, let them flow. The whole enjoyment of a symphony lies in your readiness to allow the notes to pass...”

Anthony de Mello

About This Quote

Source Book: Awareness: The Perils and Opportunities of Reality, Anthony de Mello, 1990

Happiness requires embracing change and letting moments flow, rather than clinging to past or present fragments.

In simple terms: Change is essential for lasting joy.

Key Takeaway

Allow life to move without holding on.

Themes

happiness change mindfulness

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • music appreciation
  • stress relief
  • meditation

Key Concepts

impermanence acceptance flow

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you holding onto that hinders joy?
  • How can you practice letting go daily?
A Different Perspective

Constant attachment can cause suffering and limit experience.

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