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Self Quote by Dorothee Soelle

“This situation where we are not quite what we do, where we kiss, drink, work, laugh, or meditate only with part of ourselves, is the most normal of situations. We are not wholly present in what we experience; we are still watching ourselves, and we do not attain the self-forgetfulness of being…” quote by Dorothee Soelle
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““This situation where we are not quite what we do, where we kiss, drink, work, laugh, or meditate only with part of ourselves, is the most normal of situations. We are not wholly present in what we experience; we are still watching ourselves, and we do not attain the self-forgetfulness of being one. We do not play as a child can play; rather, we observe ourselves.””

Dorothee Soelle

About This Quote

Source Book: The Power of Presence, Dorothee Sölle, 1975

Humans often engage in life activities without full awareness, observing themselves rather than fully experiencing.

In simple terms: We rarely live fully in the moment.

Key Takeaway

Practice mindfulness to be present.

Themes

mindfulness self‑awareness authenticity psychology

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily routines
  • work meetings
  • social gatherings
  • meditation sessions

Key Concepts

presence self‑observation inner child play

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moments do you observe yourself?
  • How can you cultivate child‑like play?
A Different Perspective

Overcoming habitual self‑monitoring can be challenging.

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