Thomas Hardy: 'Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change.'

Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change.

The quote by Thomas Hardy, "Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change," encapsulates the universal truth that despite the ever-changing nature of the world, there exists a part of our beings that is eternally caught off guard by unexpected shifts. This quote speaks to the essence of human experience, highlighting our innate resistance to change and our continuous fascination with its occurrence.At its core, this quote emphasizes the contrast between the external world and the inner realm of our consciousness. Time, the ultimate harbinger of change, transforms countless aspects of our lives: relationships evolve, societies progress, and nature morphs. Yet, amidst this perpetual flux, there is an intangible element within us that remains unaltered, untouched by the passing of time. It is this element that Hardy refers to as being "always surprised by change."One could argue that this "something within us" is our sense of self, our identity, or perhaps even our soul. It represents that deep-rooted core that defines who we are and how we perceive the world. This essence remains constant, even as the external circumstances of our lives alter drastically. It is as if the core of our being—a delicate, unchanging thread—is intricately weaved into the grand tapestry of existence, silently observing as the colors and patterns shift with the passage of time.To bring an unexpected philosophical concept into the article, let us consider the ancient principle of Heraclitus, who posited that "change is the only constant." These contrasting ideas provide an intriguing juxtaposition, prompting us to reflect on the irony contained within Hardy's quote. While Hardy contends that something within us is surprised by change, Heraclitus argues that change is an inherent law of the universe.At first glance, these philosophies may seem contradictory, but upon closer examination, they can be seen as two sides of the same coin. Heraclitus speaks to the objective reality of the world, emphasizing that change is an ever-present force that shapes everything around us. Hardy, on the other hand, addresses the subjective human experience of change, highlighting our innate resistance to it and our inability to fully adapt to its constant presence.This paradox encapsulated in Hardy's quote raises intriguing questions about the nature of our perception and the interplay between our inner selves and the external world. It invites us to explore the complex relationship between our unchanging core and the ever-changing external reality. Could it be that our innate surprise at change stems from a deep-rooted desire for permanence, a longing for stability amidst an ever-evolving world?Furthermore, the quote challenges us to examine how we respond to change. Are we resistant and fearful, dragged along by the tides of transformation, or do we embrace it with open arms, recognizing its inherent beauty and potential for growth? Perhaps the key lies in striking a delicate balance between adaptability and staying true to our unchanging essence.In conclusion, Thomas Hardy's quote encapsulates the eternal truth that time changes everything but leaves a part of us perpetually surprised by change. It highlights the contrast between the ever-changing external world and the unchanging core within us, fostering reflection on the paradoxical relationship between our subjective experience of change and the objective reality of an ever-evolving universe. By introducing the philosophical concept of Heraclitus' "change is the only constant," we further delve into the intricate interplay between our inner selves and the external world, challenging us to examine our response to change and the longing for permanence that resides within us.