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Appointments Quote by Benjamin Hoff

“Many people are afraid of Emptiness, however, because it reminds them of Loneliness. Everything has to be filled in, it seems-appointment books, hillsides, vacant lots-but when all the spaces are filled, the Loneliness really begins. Then the Groups are joined, the Classes are signed up for, and…” quote by Benjamin Hoff
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“Many people are afraid of Emptiness, however, because it reminds them of Loneliness. Everything has to be filled in, it seems-appointment books, hillsides, vacant lots-but when all the spaces are filled, the Loneliness really begins. Then the Groups are joined, the Classes are signed up for, and the Gift-to-Yourself items are bought. When the Loneliness starts creeping in the door, the Television Set is turned on to make it go away. But it doesn't go away. So some of us do instead, and after discarding the emptiness of the Big Congested Mess, we discover the fullness of Nothing.”

Benjamin Hoff

About This Quote

Source Book: The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff, 1982

People fill empty spaces to avoid loneliness, but true peace comes from embracing emptiness.

In simple terms: Filling emptiness hides loneliness; embracing emptiness brings peace.

Key Takeaway

Accept emptiness to find inner fullness.

Themes

loneliness emptiness consumerism inner peace mindfulness

Mood

contemplative calm thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • therapy
  • meditation
  • decluttering
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Taoism psychology minimalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does emptiness feel like for you?
  • How can you practice being comfortable with empty space?
A Different Perspective

Emptiness can feel unsettling and may be mistaken for lack of purpose.

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