The Big Questions of Life

1. Embrace impermanence to find peace and freedom

Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. Loss is unavoidable, grief isn't. Death is certain. And life, well, life isn't certain. Its uncertainty, unpredictability, even irrationality, make it what it is: worthwhile, a blessing.

Impermanence is the essence of existence. Our world and universe survive because they are constantly changing. At the root of our struggles is the quest for permanence, trying to ensure that any good in our lives must remain as is. However, harmony and evolution flourish on the principle of freedom.

To find peace and freedom:

• Accept that nothing lasts forever
• Let go of attachments to people, things, and situations
• Embrace change as a natural part of life
• Focus on the present moment rather than clinging to the past or future

By understanding and accepting impermanence, we can reduce our suffering and appreciate the beauty of life's ever-changing nature.

2. Cultivate a spiritual attitude through patience and selflessness

Freedom doesn't mean that just because you are more powerful, you bomb other countries in the face of a conflict, for example. Free speech doesn't mean that you can say whatever comes to your mind. It doesn't mean that you snub the other person just because you can.

A spiritual attitude requires patience and selflessness. It means not always putting ourselves at the center of our decisions and actions. Instead of constantly looking for what's in it for us, we can focus on how we can contribute to others' well-being.

Key aspects of cultivating a spiritual attitude:

• Practice patience in challenging situations
• Act selflessly without expecting immediate rewards
• Develop empathy and compassion for others
• Maintain a broader perspective on life's events

By fostering these qualities, we can experience greater inner peace and contribute positively to the world around us.

3. True freedom comes with responsibility and discipline

The degree of freedom you enjoy in life is directly proportional to your sense of responsibility. The price of freedom is responsibility.

Freedom requires responsible action. True freedom flourishes within a framework of discipline and order. It's not about doing whatever we want without consequences, but rather making conscious choices that respect ourselves and others.

Elements of responsible freedom:

• Understand the impact of our actions on others
• Make choices that align with our values and ethics
• Accept accountability for our decisions
• Balance personal desires with societal well-being

By embracing responsibility, we can experience a deeper sense of freedom that enhances our lives and those around us.

4. Apologize sincerely to restore trust and relationships

An apology is restoration of faith. It is conveying that I let you down once, but you can trust me that I won't put you through this again.

Sincere apologies rebuild trust. When we make mistakes, a genuine apology can help restore relationships and mend broken trust. However, an apology is only meaningful if it's sincere and accompanied by a commitment to change.

Components of a sincere apology:

• Take full responsibility for your actions
• Express genuine remorse
• Avoid making excuses or justifications
• Commit to not repeating the offense
• Offer to make amends when possible

By apologizing sincerely, we demonstrate our commitment to personal growth and the value we place on our relationships.

5. Overcome narcissism by focusing on self-growth and empathy

Narcissistic behaviour becomes their coping mechanism more than anything else.

Understanding narcissism promotes empathy. Narcissistic behavior often stems from deep-seated insecurities and vulnerabilities. By recognizing this, we can approach narcissistic individuals with more compassion and protect ourselves from their potentially harmful behavior.

Strategies for dealing with narcissism:

• Set clear boundaries to protect your well-being
• Focus on your own growth and self-esteem
• Practice empathy while maintaining emotional distance
• Seek support from others when needed
• Recognize that you can't change the narcissist, only your response

By developing these skills, we can navigate relationships with narcissistic individuals more effectively and maintain our own emotional health.

6. Realize your potential by aligning with your natural talents

If you choose not to utilize your skills, or make a decision to operate at a level much lower than what you are capable of, you won't experience lasting happiness.

Align actions with innate abilities. True fulfillment comes from recognizing and utilizing our natural talents and skills. When we operate at a level that matches our capabilities, we experience greater satisfaction and success.

Steps to realizing your potential:

• Identify your unique strengths and abilities
• Seek opportunities that allow you to use these talents
• Continuously develop and refine your skills
• Embrace challenges that push you to grow
• Find ways to contribute your talents to benefit others

By aligning our actions with our natural abilities, we can lead more fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions to the world.

7. Practice mindfulness to manage tearing thoughts and emotions

A tearing thought is a terrorist who has already penetrated your deepest defense system and lives in your hometown with vile intentions. If you could stop this one tendency you would be entirely transformed.

Mindfulness tames destructive thoughts. Tearing thoughts are those that attack us from within, undermining our self-esteem and peace of mind. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to recognize and manage these thoughts more effectively.

Techniques for managing tearing thoughts:

• Develop awareness of your thought patterns
• Practice non-judgmental observation of thoughts
• Use meditation to create space between thoughts and reactions
• Challenge negative self-talk with compassionate self-dialogue
• Focus on the present moment to reduce rumination

By cultivating mindfulness, we can reduce the power of tearing thoughts and build greater emotional resilience.

8. Honor your word to build strength and integrity

No apology is sincere if you plan on repeating the offence.

Keeping promises builds character. Honoring our word not only strengthens our relationships with others but also builds our own integrity and self-respect. It's a fundamental aspect of personal growth and ethical living.

Ways to honor your word:

• Be mindful of the commitments you make
• Consider carefully before making promises
• Follow through on your commitments, even when it's difficult
• Communicate openly if circumstances change
• Learn from times when you fall short

By consistently honoring our word, we build trust with others and develop greater personal strength and integrity.

9. Serve others selflessly to experience fulfillment and grace

The ability to care for and serve others is what distinguishes an ordinary person from an enlightened one.

Selfless service leads to fulfillment. True service requires going beyond altruism to a place of complete selflessness. When we serve without expectation of reward or recognition, we often find a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction.

Principles of selfless service:

• Act without expectation of personal gain
• Focus on the well-being of others
• Cultivate compassion and empathy
• Find ways to contribute your unique skills
• Practice gratitude for the opportunity to serve

By embracing a spirit of selfless service, we can experience greater fulfillment and connect more deeply with others and the world around us.

10. Awaken to life's true nature through continuous self-reflection

Liberation is not plonking a glorious flag on top of Mount Everest, it is but a mindful and diligent journey meandering through many treks and hikes, stopping and camping along the way, meeting and greeting fellow travellers, absorbing the breathtaking views, appreciating the challenges, rejoicing in where you are already.

Awakening is an ongoing process. True enlightenment is not a single transformative moment but a continuous journey of self-reflection and growth. It involves embracing life's challenges and joys with equal mindfulness and appreciation.

Steps toward awakening:

• Practice regular self-reflection and introspection
• Embrace life's challenges as opportunities for growth
• Cultivate mindfulness in everyday activities
• Seek wisdom from various sources and experiences
• Maintain a sense of wonder and curiosity about life

By approaching life as a continuous journey of awakening, we can find deeper meaning and joy in our everyday experiences and challenges.

Last updated: April 24, 2025