What is the essence of the word “essence”?
es·sence
ˈesəns
noun
the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.
“conflict is the essence of drama”
synonyms: quintessence, soul, spirit, nature
PHILOSOPHY
a property or group of properties of something without which it would not exist or be what it is.
plural noun: essences
an extract or concentrate obtained from a particular plant or other matter and used for flavoring or scent.
synonyms: extract, concentrate, distillate, elixir, decoction, juice, tincture
Yesterday, I had an interesting discussion about essence with Newell, Lisa, and Michelle …
… showing their essences there, left to right.
Newell — who arranged last night’s reunion of people who worked together for years at a psychiatric day treatment program — broached the subject of essence almost immediately, which reflects the essence of Newell. Newell told us he essentially believes we all have an essence that never changes. I noted the essence of irony there, since our work focused on the essence of change. I also wondered whether our essence was immortal.
My essence loves the essences of the three people in that photo.
Earlier in the day, I experienced the essence of several things, at Whole Foods Market …
… my local Honda dealership …
… and a watch and clock shop.
I’m thinking that one of those clocks might have the perfect essence for my new office in Newton, Massachusetts. Which clock would your essence choose?
Finally, here’s the essence of Lisa’s adorable dog …
Bella.
What do you think is the essence of this post? Does “My Immortal” by Evanescence capture its essence?
Here and now, I’m happy to share the essence of my gratitude for Newell, Lisa, Michelle, music, animals, time, things that change and things that stay the same, and — of course! — you.