Anxiety Quote by Anthony de Mello
“the tragedy of an attachment is that if its object is not attained it causes unhappiness. But if it is attained, it does not cause happiness – it merely causes a flash of pleasure followed by weariness, and it is always accompanied, of course, by the anxiety that you may lose the object of your attachment.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Awareness: The Perils and Opportunities of Reality, Anthony de Mello, 1990
Attachment creates suffering whether the desired object is missing or present, leading to fleeting pleasure and lingering anxiety.
In simple terms: Attachment brings pain and temporary joy.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and loosen attachment.
Themes
attachment
desire
anxiety
impermanence
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- relationships
- career goals
- material possessions
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Samsara
mindfulness
non‑attachment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does attachment affect your well‑being?
- Can you find contentment without clinging?
A Different Perspective
Attachment may be a natural human drive that can motivate achievement.
