I was not aware of this quote and I don't really think that all problems are caused by this, but I did notice the said inability. It's is astonishing how people are unable to be in silence and with themselves. The constant need for some drowning noise: radio, TV, Youtube, just headphones with some music 100% of the time they are awake. As if they are afraid to hear something unpleasant if it becomes quiet for a minute.
I, otoh, find it very meditative. And my recent hobby/passion/activity are the long (in time and duration walks— 30-100km). These are organized events, so lots of people go, sometimes in thousands (most choose shorter distances though), but I go alone and it is so… healing(?) experience. For 5-18 hours you are just with yourself and your thoughts. There is nothing you can do, just walk. Sure, one can listen to audiobooks or music, but I choose not to—it spoils the experience somehow.
Its a good quote but I don’t think society and world can support this. Why is there a room to begin with and why do you have to be forced to sit down in it. Completely counter intuitive. Same reason why meditation works for those 20 min.
It is just a quote from Pascal's Thoughts so more like haiku or ad hoc observation then a commandment.
You don't need to sit 24 hours alone in an empty room - you just should be able to - this is my interpretation.
It is like '- Master, how long should I meditate? - 20 minutes is enough. - But I don't have time for that. - If you don't have time then meditate for one hour.'
I, otoh, find it very meditative. And my recent hobby/passion/activity are the long (in time and duration walks— 30-100km). These are organized events, so lots of people go, sometimes in thousands (most choose shorter distances though), but I go alone and it is so… healing(?) experience. For 5-18 hours you are just with yourself and your thoughts. There is nothing you can do, just walk. Sure, one can listen to audiobooks or music, but I choose not to—it spoils the experience somehow.