What meaning does life hold for me? This is a wonderful question to ask ourselves at different stages throughout our lives. And although the answer will typically change as we grow and change too, it will always play an important role in where our lives are heading.
Of course, it is entirely possible for one to journey through life without seeking for or finding meaning, but that involves making the choice to live selfishly and small–for it is nearly impossible for us to do so without isolating ourselves and our gifts from the world. Still, it seems that as humanity progresses, our lives have become more distant from the lives of those around us; as human interactions are being replaced with artificial ones, precious few meaningful relationships are being forged, fewer personal obligations are being attempted, and our connections with each other are dwindling. The more we try to create meaning through existence, acquisition, and fun, as a substitute for the one thing we know in our hearts, is missing–those connections with our fellow man–the more lost we become. It is not necessarily our technological advancements that are misdirecting us from meaning in our lives, but rather attachments to them instead of to other human beings.
If we fail to connect our lives with the people around us, we will fail to learn the gratification that comes from serving our fellow man, and the depth of meaning that pours into our lives when we help lighten the burdens of life for others. You see, we are here not only to tend to our own gardens, but also to those of the people around us. To spend time walking with them–teaching them how to till the soil, plant good seeds, remove weeds, and tend to the crops–so that they, too, might be able to experience meaning in their lives through the connections they form.
You are an important piece of the whole of humanity–one with great purpose and meaning. Do not let society make you feel lost or disconnected, as this feeling will result in further isolation, lack of meaning and purpose, and a distorted view that your life is insignificant or that you cannot accomplish anything that you put your mind to. Instead, find a balance between existence, acquisition, and fun, while adding significant meaning to your life through service towards your fellow man–offering compassion and love, friendship and hope, strength and purpose, and everything else that binds our souls in loving brotherhood.
Today’s Challenge: Take some time today to honor or build upon your connections with those around you
Anandamayee 