No matter how hard we try, there are mysteries of life that will always elude our full understanding. We must simply live it as best we can. Philosophies and spiritual guides aim to show us a path, speaking truths about reality. Yet the realities they describe are no different than what you and I observe daily. Their gift was making meaning from it, while we lack the luxury of such deep reflection. Our time is consumed earning livings, acquiring necessities, navigating the world as it is.
It was the philosophers, leaders and founders of faiths who had the freedom to contemplate morality and meaning. For ordinary folks like us, fulfilling our basic needs takes priority. Retreating for months of meditation is rarely feasible.
So what mindset and approach serves us best? First, recognize you must walk your own path to find peace. Hope not for rescues or fairy tale endings. Focus on practical goals - diligent work to enable basic comforts, disciplining the mind amidst stresses. Accept that being social creatures is partly illusion. People enter our lives seeking what we provide, whether assets, availability or a listening ear. Even familial and romantic bonds often form around unspoken mutual needs, not pure selflessness. A mother's love brings her joy and fulfillment; her focus shifts when new babies arrive.
Embrace the solitary inner journey we each travel. Don't await those who exited your story. Spend energy improving yourself, not lamenting disappointments. Keep placing one foot ahead of the other with openness. Attempting to grasp life's enormity is futile; let its mystery inspire and humble you. Only by facing each moment with courage will you learn to ride out the currents carrying you.
Challenging times will arise demanding every scrap of wisdom and grit you can muster. Develop talents to provide for yourself and meet unpredictable circumstances. Strengthen your body and mind through discipline. Be your own loving guide, driven by self-care rather than external validation.
Pay attention and flow with life's intricate dance. What matters most is your integrity in fully living this moment. You are not alone, my friend.
