‘Now’ - an English or a Hindi word?
Railway tracks have always fascinated me. Discover the profound meaning of "now" through philosophy and personal experience. Explore the present moment, time, and life's journey.
The concept of "now" has intrigued philosophers and individuals alike for centuries. While often considered an English word, its origins and implications extend far beyond linguistic boundaries.
The Meaning of "Now"
In English, "now" refers to the present moment, a fleeting instant in the continuum of time. However, when we delve into philosophical discussions, the nature of "now" becomes more complex. Some philosophers argue that the "now" is distinct from the "present," while others suggest that it's a non-existent concept. The moment we utter the word "now," the "now" we were referring to has already passed.
The now as a vessel
My submission is that ‘now’ is most definitely a Hindi word. The Hindi ‘now’ is a boat, and I look at it as a vessel navigating the ever-changing waters of life. Like a boat, the "now" is most stable when grounded on the shore (the past or future), but it's only in the midst of the journey (the present) that it truly comes alive. Whether the waters are calm or turbulent, the "now" must adapt and navigate to stay afloat. And it’s fine if the ‘now’ is more than just a bit worn out.
The Philosophical Perspective
This metaphor aligns with the philosophical idea that we should focus on the present moment, doing our best without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Life is unpredictable, and there are no guarantees.
As Hunter S. Thompson famously wrote, "Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming 'Wow! What a Ride!'"
Ultimately, the true meaning of "now" is discovered through lived experience, not intellectual understanding. And as someone said, “why age gracefully when you can age like an old cheese… full of character and (at least) slightly offensive.”
Time to get into your ‘now’ now.
