This quote is a poignant reflection on the bliss of oblivion. It speaks of the vestal, a priestess in ancient Rome, who is blameless and forgotten by the world. The vestal’s lot is happy because she is free from the judgments, expectations, and demands of society. She is forgotten by the world, and in turn, forgets the world, living in a state of peaceful solitude and simplicity.

The phrase ‘the world forgetting, by the world forgot’ emphasizes the mutual forgetfulness between the vestal and the world. It suggests a state of existence where one is not influenced by external factors or societal pressures, nor does one seek to influence or be a part of the world. This state of oblivion is seen as a source of happiness, as it frees one from the burdens and complexities of worldly life.

In today’s world, this idea can be applied in the context of personal development and mental health. In a society that constantly bombards us with information, expectations, and pressures, forgetting the world and being forgotten by it can be seen as a form of self-care and mental detox. It encourages us to disconnect from the noise and distractions of the external world and focus on our inner self, our thoughts, feelings, and well-being.

This does not necessarily mean isolating oneself from society, but rather finding a balance between engagement with the world and personal solitude. It’s about making time for self-reflection, introspection, and mindfulness, and not being overly influenced or overwhelmed by societal pressures or expectations. It’s about finding happiness in one’s own company, in the simplicity and tranquility of solitude. This can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself, greater self-acceptance, and ultimately, a more authentic and fulfilling life.