In Ruth Ozeki's "A Tale for the Time Being," she reflects on a thought attributed to Dōgen regarding the many moments captured in a single snap of a finger. Although the exact number escapes her, she perceives the figure as both immense and somewhat irrational. This contemplation serves as a backdrop for her own experiences, especially when in the cockpit of her plane, facing a crucial moment that demands full awareness.

As she nears the end of her life, Ozeki anticipates a moment of truly being alive and present. This idea of clarity and discernment at the moment of death suggests a deep appreciation for the fleeting nature of time and existence. Ultimately, it illustrates her desire to embrace each moment fully, as if they collectively hold the significance of a lifetime.