He who lives in our mind is near though he may actually be far
He who lives in our mind is near though he may actually be far away; but he who is not in our heart is far though he may really be nearby.
Chanakya, the ancient sage and master of statecraft, spoke with piercing clarity when he declared: “He who lives in our mind is near though he may actually be far away; but he who is not in our heart is far though he may really be nearby.” In these words lies the eternal truth that true closeness is not measured by distance of body, but by the bond of spirit. To be near is not to stand beside, but to dwell within the chambers of love and remembrance.
The ancients knew that space and time are powerless before the might of affection. A friend, a teacher, or a beloved may be scattered by the winds of fate, dwelling across mountains or seas, yet if they live in the mind and burn in the heart, their presence is felt as if they were seated at one’s side. Conversely, one who shares our roof but not our spirit remains a stranger, more distant than one across the horizon. Thus Chanakya reveals that true nearness and true distance are matters of the soul, not the body.
This wisdom also teaches the vanity of mere appearances. Many walk among us, nearby in flesh, yet their absence weighs heavy because they do not dwell in our heart. Their words are hollow, their presence barren, for closeness cannot be forced by proximity alone. But one remembered with tenderness, one cherished in thought, casts a brighter shadow than the figure who lingers without love.
The origin of this teaching is rooted in Chanakya’s mastery of human nature. A statesman, philosopher, and guide of kings, he understood that loyalty, affection, and true alliance are born not from mere presence but from bonds of spirit. His counsel warned rulers and seekers alike to distinguish between those who merely stand near and those who truly dwell in the heart, for the fate of kingdoms rests upon knowing the difference.
Let future generations take this to heart: measure not by miles or by steps, but by remembrance and devotion. Keep those you cherish in your mind, for their presence will be unshaken by distance. Guard your heart, for it decides who is truly near and who is truly far. In this, Chanakya gifts us a compass not of land or sea, but of the soul — teaching that the true measure of closeness is love.
NMPhuong Nguyen Minh
This quote is such a powerful reminder that proximity is more than just geography—it’s about emotional intimacy. It’s easy to assume that if we see someone every day, we're close, but emotional connections take more effort. How do you nurture emotional closeness with someone who may be physically distant? Can emotional distance be overcome by simply spending more time together, or does it require something deeper?
TCBao Tran Tran Cao
Chanakya’s quote captures the essence of human relationships perfectly. Being physically close to someone doesn't guarantee emotional closeness, and vice versa. It makes me reflect on the people I care about: Are they in my heart, or am I just going through the motions? Do you believe that emotional distance can be bridged by mere physical presence, or is there something deeper required?
NHNgoc Ha
I love how this quote distinguishes between physical proximity and emotional closeness. It suggests that it's not enough to just be near someone; we need to carry them in our hearts to feel truly connected. Do you think this can apply to relationships in general—whether family, friends, or partners? Can you still feel close to someone emotionally even if they’re physically far away?
TL12 Thanh Loi
This quote really made me think about the importance of emotional connection over physical presence. It’s true that sometimes we may be physically close to someone, but if they aren't truly in our hearts, the relationship feels distant. Have you ever felt disconnected from someone who was right next to you, simply because they weren't emotionally present? How do you make sure the people you care about are truly in your heart?