The Seer's Philosophy of the Present
The AlchemistThe seer's teaching that the future is best left unknown, and that one should focus on improving the present moment.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The Camel Driver's Consultation

The Seer's Advice
The Question
Why do you want to know the future? The camel driver wanted to prepare.
The Seer's Answer
If good things come, they will be a pleasant surprise. If bad, you will suffer twice.
The Secret
The secret is in the present. Improve the present, and the future will be better.
The Lesson
This becomes the camel driver's philosophy.
The Seer's Refusal to Cast the Twigs

The Wise Decision
The Tools
He had twigs for divination, but he did not use them.
The Reason
God only reveals the future under extraordinary circumstances, and only when it is written to be altered.
The Application
He chose not to reveal the future. The camel driver had to live in the present.
The Seer's Teaching Applied by the Camel Driver

Living in the Now
The Camel Driver's Practice
He eats when eating, walks when walking. He is not afraid of the war.
The Outcome
He is happy. He has found peace.
The Influence on Santiago
Santiago learns to appreciate the present moment. This helps him later.
The Seer's Wisdom in the Oasis

The Seer's Principle Confirmed
The Vision
Santiago sees the future. He acts to change it, exactly as the seer said.
The Success
The oasis is saved. The future was revealed to be altered.
The Seer's Legacy
His philosophy is validated. The present can be improved.
before the flood, retold
during the same consultation
during the caravan
when Santiago warns the chieftains