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Past future Quote by Sogyal Rinpoche

“The past is the past, the future not yet risen, and even the present thought, as we experience it, becomes the past. The only thing we really have is nowness, is now.” quote by Sogyal Rinpoche
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““The past is the past, the future not yet risen, and even the present thought, as we experience it, becomes the past. The only thing we really have is nowness, is now.””

Sogyal Rinpoche

About This Quote

Source Teaching: The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, 1997

Only the present moment truly exists; past and future are mental constructs, and awareness of now is the only reality we possess.

In simple terms: Only now is real; past and future are thoughts.

Key Takeaway

Live fully in the present.

Themes

mindfulness impermanence time perception spirituality

Mood

calm reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily meditation
  • stressful decision making
  • creative work

Key Concepts

present-moment awareness philosophical reflection meditative practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we honor the past while staying present?
  • What practices help sustain present-moment awareness?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on now can neglect learning from past or planning for future.

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