"Être, c'est être perçu ou percevoir."

The essence of the quote is all about perception – it’s saying that our existence hinges on either being aware of things or being noticed ourselves. It’s a bit philosophical, but let's break it down. If nobody perceives you, do you really exist? And if you don’t notice the world around you, are you really here? That’s the core of it.

Historically, this idea comes from the Irish philosopher George Berkeley. In the early 18th century, he proposed that nothing exists outside of perception. This was a radical idea back then. Imagine someone telling you that there's no such thing as an unobserved apple – if no one's looking at it, it's not there. Crazy, right? But it really makes you think about how much our senses and awareness shape our reality.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example to see how this plays out. Think about social media. Imagine you're posting a photo. You’ve captured a beautiful sunset, and you share it online. That sunset, to you, is a breathtaking moment. But once you post it, it also becomes part of everyone else’s reality – they perceive it too. Your existence, in that tiny slice of time, is validated by the likes and comments. Without that perception, the moment might feel less tangible, less real.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your daily life? Well, consider this: be present and notice the world around you. Engage with people and your environment. If you want to feel more alive, immerse yourself fully in your experiences. And remember, your presence and awareness can give others a sense of existence too. Smile at a stranger, acknowledge the barista who hands you your coffee. These small acts of perception create a shared reality where everyone feels seen.

Here’s a relatable scenario. Picture yourself at a party. You don’t know many people there, and you’re feeling a bit invisible. Instead of hovering by the snack table and checking your phone, you decide to dive in. You start conversations, ask people about their stories, make genuine eye contact. Suddenly, you’re not just a wallflower; you're part of the scene. People remember you, and you remember them. Your perception of the party – and their perception of you – enriches the entire experience.

It’s fascinating, isn’t it? The way being perceived and being aware can shape our entire reality. So next time you’re out and about, try to really see and be seen. Not in a superficial way – you don’t have to be the center of attention. But in an authentic, engaged manner. Notice the little details, the way someone’s eyes light up when they talk about their passion, the crisp air on a morning walk. And let yourself be noticed too – share your thoughts, your smile, your presence.

In the end, this idea is a reminder of the power of connection. Whether you're the one perceiving or being perceived, you’re contributing to the tapestry of existence. And that’s pretty profound when you think about it. So, go ahead, live fully in the world, and let the world live in you.