This profound quote by Rumi encourages us to discern between illusion and reality, between what merely appears to be and what truly is. The first part of the quote, "Leave that which is not, but appears to be," is an invitation to let go of illusions, falsehoods, and superficialities that might seem real or important but are not. This could refer to material possessions, societal status, or even certain relationships that we may hold onto because they give us a sense of security or identity, even though they don’t truly enrich our lives.
The second part, "Seek that which is, but is not apparent," urges us to seek deeper truths that may not be immediately obvious or visible. These could be spiritual truths, inner peace, authentic relationships, or a sense of purpose that gives true meaning to our lives. The idea here is that real value often lies beneath the surface, hidden from casual view, and requires effort and discernment to discover.
Applying this idea in today’s world, especially in the context of personal development, could involve questioning our priorities and values. We live in a world that often values appearance over substance, where success is often measured in material terms. This quote challenges us to move beyond such superficial measures of success and seek deeper, more meaningful aspects of life.
In terms of personal development, this could mean focusing less on external validation and more on internal growth. It could involve seeking genuine happiness and fulfillment rather than simply going through the motions of what society expects of us. It could also mean letting go of toxic relationships or unhealthy habits that might seem comforting or beneficial on the surface, but are actually harmful in the long run.
In essence, this quote encourages us to let go of illusions and seek truth, to prioritize substance over appearance, and to strive for genuine fulfillment rather than superficial success. It’s a call to live authentically and deeply, rather than simply going along with societal norms or expectations.
