Mindful Moment 20240109
Let everything happen to you
Beauty and terror
Just keep going
No feeling is final
― Rainer Maria Rilke
These poignant words offer a profound and comforting perspective on life’s fluctuating experiences. This quote encourages acceptance of the full spectrum of life’s experiences and emotions, reminding us of the impermanence of our feelings and the importance of perseverance.
“Let everything happen to you” suggests an openness to life. Rilke advocates for a willingness to experience all that life offers, both the magnificent and the daunting. It’s a call to embrace life’s beauty and challenges. By acknowledging and experiencing both ends of this spectrum, we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of life.
The mention of “Beauty and terror” highlights the inevitable contrasts and contradictions in our experiences. Life is replete with moments of joy, wonder, and awe, as well as times of difficulty, fear, and uncertainty. This duality is an inherent part of the human experience. Rilke’s words remind us to accept these contrasting experiences, understanding that they are all part of the rich tapestry of life.
“Just keep going” is a simple yet powerful directive. It’s a call to resilience, an encouragement to continue moving forward regardless of what life throws our way. This part of the quote is about endurance, the steady commitment to continue on our path, even when faced with adversity or when our journey becomes arduous.
“No feeling is final” is perhaps the most comforting aspect of the quote. It reminds us that our emotions are transient, no matter how intense or overwhelming. Whether we are in the depths of despair or the heights of joy, these feelings will change and evolve. This message is one of hope — it assures us that difficult times will pass and that moments of happiness are not our last.
We can practice mindfulness and emotional resilience to incorporate Rilke’s profound wisdom into our lives. Mindfulness allows us to fully experience and accept our emotions without being overwhelmed. Emotional resilience equips us to navigate life’s ups and downs with equanimity and strength.
This quote is an eloquent reminder of the transient nature of our emotions and the importance of perseverance. It teaches us to embrace all aspects of life, keep moving forward through beautiful and challenging experiences, and remember that no feeling is ever final. This perspective encourages a balanced, resilient approach to life, filled with continual growth and evolution.
Rainer Maria Rilke was an acclaimed Austrian poet and novelist and was recognised as a significant writer in the German language.
