Coffee cup Quote by Jane Hirshfield
““ Perishable, It Said Perishable, it said on the plastic container, And below, in different ink, The date to be used by, the last teaspoon consumed. I found myself looking; Now at the back of each hand, Now inside the knees, Now turning over each foot to look at the sole. Then at the leaves of the young tomato plants, Then at the arguing jays. Under the wooden table and lifted stones, looking. Coffee cups, olives, cheeses, Hunger, sorrow, fears- These too would certainly vanish, without knowing when. How suddenly then The strange happiness took me, Like a man with strong hands and strong mouth, Inside that hour with its perishing perfumes and clashings.””
About This Quote
Contemplation of impermanence, noticing everyday objects as symbols of fleeting life.
In simple terms: Seeing ordinary things reminds us everything fades.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and cherish the present moment.
Themes
impermanence
mindfulness
observation
transience
everyday life
Mood
reflective
quiet
thoughtful
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- journaling
- mindfulness practice
- teaching about change
Key Concepts
poetry
philosophical reflection
temporal awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- What everyday object reminds you of life's fleeting nature?
- How does noticing impermanence affect your choices?
A Different Perspective
The abstract style may be hard to grasp for some readers.
![“[On living in New York City:] I'm oblivious to everything. I just don't notice anything. I sat in a coffee shop, drank half a cup of coffee before I noticed there was lipstick on the cup. There was wadded-up gum and lipstick on the napkin. I must have been sitting on that woman's lap for an hour.” quote by Laura Kightlinger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f87/laura-kightlinger-24538_cities_on-living-in-new-york-city-i-m-oblivious_55113.jpg)
