Purpose…
As of late I have struggled with the idea of who I am and what my purpose actually is once I made the distinct decision to separate my identity from what I do for a living. I have and still struggle but I’ve also come to terms with a few things and what I have ultimately realized is quite simple.
The ultimate purpose of our existence is not a destination or a goal to be achieved but an experience to be lived. Life, in its essence, is a dance, a spontaneous expression of the universe exploring itself. We often fall into the trap of seeking a concrete purpose or meaning, driven by the desire to categorize and understand everything in linear terms. However, this quest can distract us from the simple truth that life is about being present in the moment and fully experiencing the here and now.
In many Eastern philosophies, particularly Taoism and Zen Buddhism, the focus is on living in harmony with the Tao, the way of the universe. This harmony is not about striving for a particular outcome but about flowing with the natural rhythms of existence, embracing both the joys and sorrows, the highs and lows. It's about recognizing that the distinction between the self and the universe is an illusion; we are not separate entities but integral parts of a vast, interconnected whole.
The ultimate purpose, if we can call it that, is to realize and embody this interconnectedness. To see through the illusion of separation, to understand that we are the universe experiencing itself through countless forms and perspectives. When we align ourselves with this understanding, life becomes a continuous act of play, a joyful participation in the grand cosmic dance.
In this sense, our purpose is to awaken to our true nature, to see the divine play in all things, and to live with a sense of wonder, compassion, and creativity. Life is not a problem to be solved but a mystery to be enjoyed. We find purpose not in the pursuit of some external goal but in the realization that we are already part of something profoundly beautiful and eternal.