This quote is suggesting the concept of reincarnation, the belief that the soul, upon death of the body, comes back to life in a new body or form. According to this belief, we have lived multiple lives before the one we are currently experiencing. The quote implies that in some of these past existences, we might have been in a more advanced or enlightened state of mind than we are in our current life.
In simpler terms, imagine your consciousness as a traveler on an endless journey, hopping from one life to another. In some lives, you might have achieved a high level of wisdom, understanding, and peace of mind. However, in your current life, you may not be at that same level. This could be due to various reasons such as the circumstances of your birth, the environment you grew up in, or the experiences you’ve had in this life.
Applying this concept to personal development, it encourages introspection and self-improvement. It suggests that we all have the potential to reach a better state of mind, as we might have done so in our past lives. This potential could be realized through various means such as meditation, learning, personal growth, and other forms of self-improvement.
In today’s world, this concept could be a source of hope and motivation. It implies that no matter what state of mind we are currently in, it’s not permanent and can be improved. It also suggests that we are not inherently limited or flawed, but rather have the potential for growth and improvement. This perspective can inspire us to strive for better mental and emotional states, and to continuously seek growth and development.
Moreover, it can also foster a sense of humility and understanding. If we accept that we may have been in a better state of mind in a past life, it means that we can also regress, reminding us of the importance of continuous self-improvement and learning. It can also help us to be more understanding and compassionate towards others who are in a less advanced state of mind, as we realize that we too have been or could be in their place.