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All things Quote by Joseph Campbell

“The eternal principle, which never was born, never will die: it is in all things: it is in you now. You are the wave on the face of the ocean. When the wave is gone, is the water gone? Has anything happened? Nothing has happened. It is a play, a game, a dance.” quote by Joseph Campbell
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“The eternal principle, which never was born, never will die: it is in all things: it is in you now. You are the wave on the face of the ocean. When the wave is gone, is the water gone? Has anything happened? Nothing has happened. It is a play, a game, a dance.”

Joseph Campbell

About This Quote

The quote expresses that an underlying, timeless principle per all existence, uncreated and indestructible, manifests in every phenomenon, including human consciousness, and that individual events are fleeting expressions of this larger continuity.

In simple terms: Timeless principle underlies all change.

Key Takeaway

All things are expressions of an eternal whole.

Themes

impermanence interconnectedness philosophy of self nature of reality spiritual unity existential reflection

Mood

wonder serenity awe

Type

philosophical poetic spiritual

When to use this quote

  • contemplating personal identity
  • discussing meditation
  • exploring metaphysics
  • teaching mindfulness
  • writing poetry

Key Concepts

eternal principle wave metaphor playful existence non-duality

Practical Applications

  • philosophical counseling
  • creative writing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing an eternal principle affect daily choices?
  • What does it mean to be a 'wave' in the ocean of existence?
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