In the poetic universe of Leonard Cohen, the wisdom of life unfurls in melodies and words, weaving the fabric of understanding that cloaks us in times of bewilderment. One such gem from Cohen’s trove of wisdom is the contemplative line, “If you don’t become the ocean, you’ll be seasick every day.” In this seemingly simple sentence, Cohen captures a profound philosophy of life, suggesting a journey towards vastness, acceptance, and inner peace to sail smoothly through life’s tumultuous waters.
To understand this phrase’s depth, one needs to dive into the essence of what it means to “become the ocean.” Cohen alludes to a state of being where one transcends the pettiness, the rocks, and the storms, embodying the expansive, limitless, and serene essence of the ocean. It is about embodying a state of fluidity and vastness, where the waves of external circumstances don’t define or disturb one’s core.
Becoming the ocean is about embracing a perspective larger than oneself and the turbulence of everyday life. It’s an invitation to dissolve the boundaries of ego, desire, and fear that often keep us tangled in a perpetual state of dissatisfaction and longing. By being the ocean, we become a witness to life’s changing scenes, maintaining a composed and stable essence despite the world’s ever-changing nature.
On the contrary, remaining separate from the ocean’s vastness leads to a daily struggle—being “seasick every day.” Seasickness becomes a metaphor for the discomfort, dissatisfaction, and turbulence experienced when one is disconnected from a more profound, encompassing reality. It’s the tumult felt when one is caught in the tides of desire, fear, and constant change, unable to find stable ground or peace within.
The implication of Cohen’s wisdom is powerful: our survival depends on our ability to adapt, to be vast in our understanding and acceptance of life’s various expressions. In embracing the ocean within, we find the ability to navigate life with grace and ease, allowing its waves to pass without leaving us shaken.
In a world filled with uncertainties, struggles, and constant change, Cohen’s words reverberate with a timeless resonance. They urge us to look within, discover our boundless nature, and embrace a broader perspective of life. It’s about finding steadiness in the midst of chaos, grounding oneself in the vast ocean of existence that remains untouched by the superficial tremors of life.
Leonard Cohen, through his evocative words, gifts us a lens to view life with clarity and profound understanding. In becoming the ocean, we find the elixir for life’s seasickness, unlocking doors to tranquility, acceptance, and the harmonious flow of existence.
