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About this quote

What does it mean?
Our perception shapes reality; faith and knowledge guide the eyes, and the hands follow.
In plain terms
What we see determines what we become.
What can you take from it?
Cultivate clear sight through belief and learning.

Where it applies

  • learning new skills
  • spiritual practice

Putting it to work

  • read widely
  • reflect on beliefs

Questions to consider

  • How does your belief affect what you notice?
  • What knowledge expands your view?

Another view

Actions also shape perception, not just sight.

More from Henry David Thoreau

  1. Who looks in the sun will see no light else; but also he will see no shadow. Our life revolves unceasingly, but the centre is ever the same, and the wise will …

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  2. The Indian...stands free and unconstrained in Nature, is her inhabitant and not her guest, and wears her easily and gracefully. But the civilized man has the h…

    Permalink to quote #23
  3. Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable. No day will have been whol…

    Permalink to quote #20

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