Every step Quote by Eihei Dogen
““Treading along in this dreamlike, illusory realm, Without looking for the traces I may have left; A cuckoo's song beckons me to return home; Hearing this, I tilt my head to see Who has told me to turn back; But do not ask me where I am going, As I travel in this limitless world, Where every step I take is my home.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Dreamlike Realm” from Shobogenzo, 13th century
The poet describes a dreamlike journey, guided by a cuckoo’s song, urging return home while embracing boundless exploration.
In simple terms: Dream journey guided by song.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the journey.
Themes
spirituality
journey
homecoming
Mood
contemplative
mysterious
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- meditation
- creative writing
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Zen
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “home” mean to you?
- How do you balance wandering and purpose?
A Different Perspective
The path may feel aimless without clear goals.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
