Section 1.1: Seeking Solutions

Over the past four years, I’ve explored countless avenues in my quest for clarity. From meditation to disconnecting from social media, I’ve dabbled in fasting, journaling, therapy, yoga, breathwork, and even adopting a vegan lifestyle. I've immersed myself in self-help literature, spent solitary time in nature, and connected deeply with animals—all in hopes of uncovering my true self. There was even a phase where I stopped listening to music, aiming to quiet my racing thoughts.

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

In these moments of solitude, I felt a sense of completeness and tranquility. Yet, I often wondered if everything I had achieved was merely an illusion. I had somehow convinced myself that being productive was the key to achieving a state of being. Questions flooded my mind: "What comes next?" "How can I reach a higher state of enlightenment?" I soon realized that this line of thinking was misguided.

Section 1.2: The Illusion of Control

I spent years searching for answers, believing that I needed to solve every puzzle life presented. However, I recognized that I was not a monk devoted to a life of enlightenment. It became clear that I needed to stop pretending to have it all figured out.

What I truly required was to cease all actions. I had to relinquish control and allow the universe to unfold without my interference.

I often think of life as dining in a restaurant. You can choose anything from the menu (the world), but if you keep insisting on placing your order without giving the waiter a chance, you’ll miss out on the meal.

Image by dima_goroziya from Pixabay

For years, I sought to understand the reasons behind life’s circumstances, whether good or bad. I craved simple explanations for my feelings of disconnection. Eventually, I realized that I was simply making desperate attempts to change my reality.

Then, it dawned on me: I needed to stop interrupting my own process. I had to stop the incessant questioning. I thought I was adept at observing my feelings and experiences, but I came to understand that nothing lasts forever—be it positive or negative. This realization was pivotal in calming my mind and awakening my spirit.

Subsection 1.2.1: Embracing the Human Condition

Humans have a tendency to label everything. By naming our emotions, thoughts, and actions, we believe we can manage them. However, I neglected the most crucial label—my own humanity. I wasn’t grappling with unique problems; I was experiencing the universal human condition.

This realization lifted a weight off my shoulders. There was no need for excessive questions or misguided answers.

As one of my favorite texts reminds me:

“Express yourself completely,

then keep quiet.

Be like the forces of nature:

when it blows, there is only wind;

when it rains, there is only rain;

when the clouds pass, the sun shines through.

He who defines himself

can’t know who he really is.

Trying to control the future

is like trying to take the master carpenter’s place.

When you handle the master carpenter’s tools,

chances are that you’ll cut your hand.”

— “Tao Te Ching” by Lao Tzu, translated by Stephen Mitchell

Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

While there are undeniable universal principles in Nature, I’ve come to accept that I don’t need to understand everything about the world. Attachment is often linked to suffering, and I have learned that assumptions can lead to the same outcome.

It’s essential to be at peace with uncertainty. Let go of expectations, right or wrong, and the compulsion to act. Perhaps our attempts to control our paths are what hinder us from truly discovering the way.

If you’ve read this far, thank you! If you find yourself feeling lost, take a moment to breathe deeply. The potential within us is vast. We can learn to embrace both victories and defeats. Cultivating gratitude will guide you toward your destination—wherever that may be!