🍄 Seeing for the Last Time

Hi Reader,

In Buddhist and psychedelic circles, we often hear about Beginner’s Mind. The practice of seeing things as if for the first time, with fresh eyes. It can be a powerful tool for mindfulness, bringing us into the present and deepening our connection to life.

But what about the opposite?

What if, instead of seeing things as if for the first time, we practiced seeing them as if for the last time?

This has been on my mind lately—impermanence, goodbyes, the temporary nature of everything. Unlike Beginner’s Mind, this practice often carries a potential truth. Any time seeing something could be the last. Life changes unexpectedly. People, places, and circumstances shift before we even realize it’s happening.

Leaving Vietnam recently, I didn’t get to say proper goodbyes. In the end I left in a hurry, booking my flight and deciding to leave the same day, as things were scary and uncertain with my Mum's health.

This time has reminded me how fragile and fleeting everything is. That thought brings presence. It makes the world sharper, more alive. It reminds me to try and make the most of things, to seize the day.

And if we extended that to our relationships?

If we treated each interaction as if it were the last, how would we show up? What would we say? Would we be more patient, more loving, more honest?

Psychedelics have brought me to this understanding many times. The preciousness of life, the desire to appreciate it, and the gratitude that often follows.

So today, maybe try it.

Look at something, or someone, as if it’s the last time.
Imagine that you won't ever see them again.

See what it changes.

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Ayla Nova talks with East Forest about healing music..

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❤️ Love and mettā,

John

John Robertson​
​Psychedelic Facilitator & Educator​
​Maps of the Mind​

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