“You are a function of what the whole universe is doing in the same way that a wave is a function of what the whole ocean is doing.”
— Alan Watts
Simplified Meaning:
Just like how a wave is not separate from the ocean but a part of it, you are not separate from the universe but a part of it. Think about a wave in the sea—it exists because the ocean is moving and changing all the time. In the same way, your actions, thoughts, and life are connected to everything happening around you. For example, imagine you are at a party. Your mood, conversations, and actions depend on the people, the music, the food, and everything else at the party. Similarly, whatever you do is influenced by and influences the world. This means we are all connected. Understanding this makes you see that you are never really alone and that everything you do affects and is affected by the larger world. So, be mindful and think about how your actions fit into the bigger picture.