Caused Quote by Stephen Levine
“Our suffering is caused by holding on to how things might have been, should have been, could have been.”
About This Quote
Source Book: A Year to Live, Stephen Levine, 1995
We suffer when we cling to imagined past or future versions of reality, preventing present acceptance.
In simple terms: Holding onto imagined outcomes causes pain.
Key Takeaway
Release expectations, embrace now.
Themes
acceptance
mindfulness
attachment
pain
Mood
reflective
calm
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- grief counseling
- relationship conflict
- career setbacks
- personal growth
Key Concepts
impermanence
expectation
self-compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- What imagined outcome is you clinging to?
- How does acceptance change your experience?
A Different Perspective
Letting go can be difficult when identity is tied to those expectations.
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