Dive into the timeless wisdom of Kalidasa, India's poetic genius. This ancient Sanskrit poem beautifully captures the wonders of living in the here and now. Take a moment to bask in its beauty!
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The other day, I stumbled upon a poem that hit me right in the feels. You know that moment when something just clicks? Yeah, it was just like that.
So, naturally, I had to grab the book (it's in John Naish's "Enough" if you're wondering) and dive straight back into those lines that got me all goosebumpy. And then I read them again. And again. And... well, you get the idea.
This poem is all about embracing the present moment, the here and now. We've all seen it in good poems and entire books before (Eckhart Tolle's "Power of Now" anyone?).
But this poem's got a special sprinkle of wisdom:
Live well now, and you'll have the best memories to look back on AND the brightest future to look forward to.
Isn’t that just the loveliest thing?
It's like a gentle nudge reminding us to cherish and create happy moments. 'Cause those moments? They’re gold. Pure gold for now, for reminiscing, and for dreaming.
The poem is called "Look to this Day" by Kalidasa, a Sanscrit author considered ancient India's greatest poet. I found the translation on allpoetry.com, and it’s just too good not to share.
Here it is ... Bask in its beauty. And maybe, just maybe, let it be that little spark to brighten your today.
Kalidasa's Poem
Look To This Day
Look to this day:
For it is life, the very life of life.
In its brief course
Lie all the verities and realities of your existence.
The bliss of growth,
The glory of action,
The splendour of achievement
Are but experiences of time.
For yesterday is but a dream
And tomorrow is only a vision;
And today well-lived, makes
Yesterday a dream of happiness
And every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Look well therefore to this day;
Such is the salutation to the ever-new dawn!
'…today well-lived, makes yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.'
Ah, my heart!!
More From Kalidasa
If the poem got you hooked, you might enjoy diving deeper into Kalidasa's writings. Here are a couple of book recs:
Do you have a special poem that grounds you in the moment?
Wishing you planty of delightful moments in the here and now,
Ramona
Psst ... you'll also enjoy these 2 Native American Quotes and the 10 Short Inspirational Videos.
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