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Change Quote by Henepola Gunaratana

“The present moment is changing so fast that we often do not notice its existence at all. Every moment of mind is like a series of pictures passing through a projector. Some of the pictures come from sense impressions. Others come from memories of past experiences or from fantasies of the future.” quote by Henepola Gunaratana
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“The present moment is changing so fast that we often do not notice its existence at all. Every moment of mind is like a series of pictures passing through a projector. Some of the pictures come from sense impressions. Others come from memories of past experiences or from fantasies of the future.”

Henepola Gunaratana

About This Quote

Source Talk: Mindfulness in Everyday Life, 2005

We are so absorbed in thoughts that we miss the present, which is a continuous flow of sensory, memory, and imagined images.

In simple terms: We often overlook the now because our mind jumps between past and future.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate awareness of each passing moment.

Themes

mindfulness presence perception

Mood

calm focused reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily meditation
  • stressful work
  • creative brainstorming
  • parenting
  • travel

Key Concepts

impermanence mental imagery attention

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you anchor yourself when thoughts drift?
  • What simple practice helps you notice the present?
A Different Perspective

The mind can be trained to stay present, but distraction is a strong habit.

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