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About this quote

What does it mean?
Symbols hide reality; reality is the true guide and self.
In plain terms
Don't rely on symbols; follow real experience.
What can you take from it?
Seek truth in lived reality, not just symbols.

Where it applies

  • philosophical reflection
  • spiritual practice

Putting it to work

  • question symbolic meanings
  • ground decisions in experience

Questions to consider

  • When are symbols helpful?
  • How can we balance symbolism with reality?

Another view

Symbols can also help convey complex ideas efficiently.

More from Irving Fiske

  1. Hitting a child is worse than MURDER!

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  2. Children are ambassadors from another dimension and should be treated with diplomatic courtesy.

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  3. Adults must remember that they look like insane giants to children.

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