“It was but yesterday I thought myself a fragment quivering without rhythm in the sphere of life. Now I know that I am the sphere, and all life in rhythmic fragments moves within me.”
Khalil Gibran’s quote eloquently encapsulates a profound transformation in self-awareness and perspective. The transition from feeling like a mere fragment of existence to recognizing oneself as the encompassing "sphere" speaks to the universal human journey of self-discovery and realization of interconnectedness.
At the beginning of the quote, Gibran describes a state of fragmentation: “It was but yesterday I thought myself a fragment quivering without rhythm in the sphere of life.” This imagery paints a vivid picture of incompleteness and uncertainty. The term "fragment" suggests a disjointed existence, while "quivering" evokes feelings of vulnerability and instability. In this state, the individual perceives themselves as separate from the wholeness of life, experiencing a lack of rhythm, which signifies disconnection and chaos.
The pivotal moment comes with the phrase, “Now I know that I am the sphere." Here, Gibran reveals a significant shift in consciousness. The "sphere" symbolizes wholeness, unity, and a harmonious rhythm that encompasses all that exists. This realization marks a transition from isolation to inclusion, from being a passive observer to becoming an active participant in the grand tapestry of life.
The latter part of the quote, “and all life in rhythmic fragments moves within me,” underscores the idea that while life comprises various individual experiences (fragments), they are all part of a greater, interconnected whole. This suggests a deep understanding of interdependence, where the individual is not just a spectator but a vital part of the ongoing rhythm of existence.
In summary, Gibran’s quote captures the essence of personal growth and the enlightenment that comes with recognizing one’s role in the larger scheme of life. It invites reflection on our interconnectedness and encourages us to embrace both our uniqueness and our unity with all that surrounds us.
“Too many fragments of the spirit have I scattered in these streets, and too many are the children of my longing that walk naked among these hills, and I cannot withdraw from them without a burden and an ache.”
“All these things shall love do unto you that you may know the secrets of your heart, and in that knowledge become a fragment of Life’s heart.”
“My soul counselled me and instructed me to see that the light which I carry is not my light, That my song was not created within me; For though I travel with the light, I am not the light.”
“The timeless in you is aware of life's timelessness. And knows that yesterday is but today's memory and tomorrow is today's dream.”
“One day you will ask me which is more important? My life or yours? I will say mine and you will walk away not knowing that you are my life.”
“Pity the nation whose statesman is a fox, whose philosopher is a juggler, and whose art is the art of patching and mimicking.Pity the nation that welcomes its new ruler with trumpetings, and farewells him with hootings, only to welcome another ruler with trumpetings again.Pity the nation whose sages are dumb with years and whose strong men are yet in the cradle.Pity the nation divided into fragments, each fragment deeming itself a nation.”