In his book "Seven Thousand Ways to Listen," Mark Nepo explores the transformative nature of new experiences on the human mind. He emphasizes that stepping outside of our comfort zones and encountering the unfamiliar expands our perspectives, forever altering our understanding of the world. This process is akin to a mind being stretched, highlighting the profound impact that growth and learning can have on our lives.

Oliver Wendell Holmes' quote encapsulates this idea by suggesting that once we have been exposed to new ideas or experiences, we cannot revert to our previous state of understanding. This transformation illustrates the importance of embracing change and remaining open to learning, as it enriches our lives and fosters deeper connections to what is sacred within and around us.