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Clear Quote by David Whyte

“We withdraw not to disappear, but to find another ground from which to see; a solid ground from which to step, and from which to speak again, in a different way, a clear, rested, embodied voice we begin to remember again as our own.” quote by David Whyte
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“We withdraw not to disappear, but to find another ground from which to see; a solid ground from which to step, and from which to speak again, in a different way, a clear, rested, embodied voice we begin to remember again as our own.”

David Whyte

About This Quote

Source Poem: The River of Life, 2005

We retreat not to vanish but to gain a new perspective, a firm base to act and speak differently, restoring an authentic, rested voice.

In simple terms: Retreat to gain fresh perspective and authentic voice.

Key Takeaway

Seek new grounding before speaking again.

Themes

self‑reflection growth authenticity

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • creative block
  • leadership transition
  • mental health recovery

Key Concepts

embodiment voice perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ground do you need to stand on?
  • How does retreat reshape your voice?
A Different Perspective

May become stagnation if new ground isn’t found.

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