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Answers Quote by David Whyte

“The tragedy with velocity as the answer to complexity is that, after awhile, you cannot see or comprehend anything that is not traveling at the same speed you are. And you actually start to feel disturbed by people who have a sense of restfulness to their existence.” quote by David Whyte
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“The tragedy with velocity as the answer to complexity is that, after awhile, you cannot see or comprehend anything that is not traveling at the same speed you are. And you actually start to feel disturbed by people who have a sense of restfulness to their existence.”

David Whyte

About This Quote

Source Speech: The Poetry of Life, David Whyte, 2012

When speed becomes the measure of complexity, we lose ability to perceive slower, deeper aspects, feeling uneasy about calm individuals.

In simple terms: Fast pace blinds us to slower truths, causing discomfort with calmness.

Key Takeaway

Slow down to notice what speed hides.

Themes

perception speed complexity comfort calm

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • workplace meetings
  • personal reflection
  • creative projects
  • learning environments
  • relationship dynamics

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology attention

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your pace affect what you notice?
  • Can you value calmness without feeling threatened?
A Different Perspective

Speed can be necessary for progress, making slower insight seem inefficient.

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