How Outward Journeys Enrich Our Inner Being

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“As a mountain is unshaken by the wind, so the heart of a wise person is unmoved by all the changes on this earth” -Gautama Buddha

How can we become more mindful on our life’s journey?

How can we appreciate our experiences and encounters?

How can we enrich our lives with each step along the way?

Our path leads us in many directions for our personal growth and self-discovery, with beginnings and endings, twists and turns, and opportunities to fulfill our wildest dreams. Milestone makers for action steps taken toward our destiny can bestow deeper insight and wisdom. Whether it’s a monumental endeavor or a daily experience as a traveler through life, there is always a chance to get to know ourselves in different ways. Each step is a collection of memorable moments, perceived as pleasant or unpleasant, that can transform your life. Ultimately, it is how we contemplate and process our experiences.  As quoted by Buddha, “Everything arises and passes away. When you see this, you are above sorrow. This is the shining way”. In the context of interactions with others or simply being alone, it can be a spiritually enriching opportunity to go inward.

As we allow our path to gently unfold, it is essential to listen to our heart for guidance along the way. Oftentimes, we do not take the time to process the meaning of our experiences and encounters that are taken for granted. The helping hand, words of wisdom, acts of loving-kindness that brighten your day, and the goodness extended to others are profound life-changing moments. The subtleties of life are magnificent moments. Awakening in the morning to the sunrise of a new day and retiring in the evening watching the colorful sunset make us mindful that the next moment is not promised and to live life to the fullest.

My travels have given me a broader perspective on life and have taught me how to be present and available to learn and grow. Most importantly, the need to cultivate my inner self. Spending time in the Himalayas nourished my mind, body, and soul. Encounters with Masters, connecting with natives of the land, exhilarating views of the mountains, and participating in water, earth, and air initiations were life-changing events. Surrendering to peace, and solitude and being open to learning, contributed to my continuous desire to be a seeker from within. As Buddha quotes, “Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without”. Outward journeys enrich our inner being by deepening our relationship with ourselves, embracing connections with others, appreciating harmony in nature, and recognizing true kinship.

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Deepen the relationship with yourself

Knowing yourself is the biggest accomplishment and a journey in itself. Appreciate your strengths and acknowledge areas for growth. Self-knowledge builds confidence and courage to pursue your own path independent of others. As we choose to be present and pay attention, the depth of our senses enables us to listen and hear, see and look, notice the fragrances that surround us, and be more attuned to our innermost feelings. It is important to take the time to check in with yourself by engaging in self-inquiry and self-reflection. Capturing enriching experiences by journaling enables us to process outer experiences to go deeper within. When you look back upon those inspirational and recorded accounts, the memories will be fresh and bring joy for years to come.

Alone time brings silence and solitude to connect with your inner self. Focus on the breath that draws you inward and notice how you feel. Trust and have faith in yourself and listen for divine guidance. Be optimistic and accept challenges. Buddha says, “On a long journey of human life, faith is the best companion. It is the best refreshment on the journey”. Know that wherever your path leads, the hand of grace is extended with assurance for divine support. Give yourself the sacred time to deepen the relationship with yourself that will result in a greater capacity to strengthen your relationship with others.

Embrace connections with others

How do you perceive others? How do others perceive you? The essence of your true self radiates and is reflective in the outer world. Our verbal and non-verbal communication leaves lasting impressions. Take the time to learn about other cultures and be respectful of their mores and sacred rituals. Communicate authentic interest in others and be naturally curious. Through virtuous deeds and compassionate understanding, memorable moments are created. Sharing enhances authentic and reciprocal communication. Practice humility, courtesy, and generosity that are ingredients of love, and openly express gratitude to generate positive feelings and build lasting connections.

Appreciate the harmony of nature

Whether traveling to an exotic faraway land filled with majestic beauty or simply enjoying the intricate beauty of a single flower, nature reveals a profound understanding of life. As we align with nature, we notice and become the beauty, tranquility, and balance that brings inner harmony. Nature teaches us patience. As quoted by Buddha, “Do not rush anything. When the time is right it’ll happen”. This teaches us to accept where we are and know that we are in our right place. The natural cycles of change with endings and beginnings are metaphors for our life. Take time to enjoy the adventure and travel through life with grace and ease. Choose to be where you are fully and completely to get the most out of each step along the way.

Recognize true kinship

Even though we are different, we are One at the core of our being.  We all have the need for survival and to live a quality life. The values of respect for human dignity, freedom, peace, justice, and prosperity are shared, and our innate capacity for love is the language of our soul. Accepting our kinship and the truth of who we are binds us together and governs our existence. Our individual responsibility to be the highest expression of ourselves contributes to the well-being of the collective.

Conclusion

Life is an outward journey filled with enriching experiences that connect us with our inner being. Be mindful of the opportunities that prevail. Find happiness and fulfillment by being present on your life’s journey. Buddha says, “There is no path to happiness: Happiness is the path”. Do not look backward; move forward with confidence and courage. Take each step consciously and be grateful for all you encounter, with the realization that all is for your highest good. Listen to your heart and have faith in divine guidance. Lose the fear, carry joy in your heart, and live life to the fullest. Know that you are on the right path for your own transformation. Nourish yourself and be mindful of the beauty that surrounds you. We are all connected and innately bound by love. Wherever your path leads, be steadfast and true to yourself.

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