Thomas Merton: 'We have what we seek, it is there all the time, and if we give it time, it will make itself known to us.'

We have what we seek, it is there all the time, and if we give it time, it will make itself known to us.

In the bustling chaos of our modern lives, it is easy to fall into the trap of constantly seeking happiness and fulfillment outside of ourselves. We tirelessly search for the next big promotion, the perfect relationship, or the latest material possession, firmly believing that these external factors will provide us with the contentment we desire. However, Thomas Merton's profound quote, "We have what we seek, it is there all the time, and if we give it time, it will make itself known to us," reminds us that true happiness and fulfillment already reside within us.At first glance, Merton's words might seem simple and straightforward. They encourage us to pause, reflect, and focus on what we already possess rather than constantly striving for more. But upon closer examination, a deeper philosophical concept emerges - the idea that our true essence and potential lie hidden within us, and it is through introspection and self-discovery that we can uncover our true selves.This concept challenges the prevalent cultural narrative of constantly seeking external validation and material success. Merton's quote suggests that we have an innate wisdom and wholeness within us, waiting to be acknowledged and nurtured. It urges us to slow down, cultivate mindfulness, and create the space necessary for our authentic selves to surface.In a society that glorifies the pursuit of external achievements, it is all too easy to overlook the significance of inner growth and self-awareness. We are bombarded with messages that tell us happiness and success are obtainable only through external means - through acquiring more possessions, achieving higher goals, or winning the approval and admiration of others. Yet, Merton's words challenge this paradigm, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from understanding and embracing our true selves.Let's delve deeper into this unexpected philosophical concept by exploring the contrasts between external seeking and internal discovery. When we chase external markers of success, we often find ourselves in a state of perpetual restlessness. We might temporarily experience moments of joy or accomplishment, but they quickly fade, leaving us hungry for the next achievement. In contrast, when we turn our attention inward and give ourselves the gift of time and self-reflection, we tap into a wellspring of purpose and fulfillment that is perennial and enduring.External seeking often comes with the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations. We constantly compare ourselves to others and measure our worth based on external benchmarks, leaving us feeling inadequate and insecure. Conversely, when we uncover and embrace our true selves, we are freed from the shackles of comparison and find solace in our unique experiences, perspectives, and abilities. Our worth is no longer determined by societal standards but by the depth of our self-understanding and compassion for ourselves and others.Another contrast lies in the ephemeral nature of external pursuits compared to the lasting transformation that occurs through internal exploration. Material possessions can bring temporary enjoyment, but the initial excitement often wanes over time as we adapt to their presence. In contrast, the process of understanding and appreciating our true selves is one that deepens and enriches our lives as we grow and evolve. It is a lifelong journey that allows us to find meaning and purpose in all aspects of our existence, not just in fleeting moments of success or pleasure.Merton's quote is an invitation to slow down, listen to the wisdom within, and find value in the present moment. It encourages us to recognize that the answers we seek are not outside of us but are already encoded within the depths of our being. By giving ourselves time and space for introspection, we can strip away the layers of societal conditioning, uncover our true desires, and align our lives with our authentic selves.In a world that drives us to constantly seek and consume, Merton's words are a gentle reminder that true happiness and fulfillment do not lie in the acquisition of external things but in the discovery and nourishment of our inherently precious and complete selves. Let us heed his wisdom and embark on a journey of self-exploration, knowing that within us, we have what we seek, waiting patiently to be known and embraced.