Findings Quote by R. D. Laing
“Before one goes through the gate one may not be aware there is a gate One may think there is a gate to go through and look a long time for it without finding it One may find it and it may not open If it opens one may be through it As one goes through it one sees that the gate one went through was the self that went through it no one went through a gate there was no gate to go through no one ever found a gate no one ever realized there was never a gate”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Divided Self, R. D. Laing, 1960
The passage describes a metaphorical gate representing self‑awareness; the gate is both an obstacle and the self itself, suggesting that seeking external barriers is futile because the barrier is internal.
In simple terms: Self‑awareness is the real gate; external searches are misdirected.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that obstacles are often internal.
Themes
self‑knowledge
perception
identity
mindfulness
Mood
contemplative
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- therapy
- meditation
- overcoming self‑doubt
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
self‑realization
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing internal barriers change your actions?
- What does “the gate is the self” mean to you?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may be too abstract for practical guidance.
![“I kind of pride myself on coming onto things that are well-oiled machines and finding a way to bring what I bring and fit in, and raise it to another level if I can. And this [Code Black ] has been another one of those really fun success stories, much like Parks And Recreation, although obviously…” quote by Rob Lowe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ea3/rob-lowe-855_black_i-kind-of-pride-myself-on-coming-onto-th_6557.jpg)
