I Have Found.

When I started this blog in 2012, it was an attempt to learn more about the world and my place in it. It was an initiation into introspection and contemplation. Little did I know how much I would learn on this path, and the mysteries life had in store for me.

Two months ago, I thought I had found the meaning of life. Yes, at 26 I had discovered THE ultimate truth, THE universal theory of everything--what many have spent their wholes lives attempting to discover in vain. And I could prove it.

Yea, sounds pretty ridiculous. But that's where I was. I thought I could show everyone through logic, even perhaps through a mathematical proof, the undeniable epitome of our existence. This life epiphany at the time provided, albeit brief, joyous revelation. I couldn't fathom how short-lived it would be, nor how long the subsequent period of despair and anxiety.

I have found.

I have indeed found--not ultimate truth, but a real truth about myself, and a major life lesson. The past two months have without a doubt been the most trying time of my entire life. I'm fairly certain I went crazy for about 3 weeks, as I realized how laughable my epiphany was. I always aim to remain thankful for the challenges life hands me, and I am particularly grateful for this one. Here are 3 things I have learned from it:

1. Practice positivity. This is a tremendous skill. No matter how bad things may seem, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. You must simply believe it. Imagine it, and it will be.

2. Logic and rational thinking are essential tools, but can only take you so far. At some point, you must FEEL. This is my vice, and is my next life venture. We can attempt to describe with words, diagrams, and numbers the wonders of this life, but nothing beats the actual EXPERIENCE. It's about quieting the mind and opening your heart to the irrational, the miraculous, and diving in headfirst with the risk of drowning. The fortitude and fulfillment this brings is invaluable. In a culture where we are constantly looking toward the future, it is easy to lose our spontaneity and ability to live in and fully enjoy the present. Perhaps Ms. Frizzle said it best, "Take chances. Get messy. Make mistakes!"

3. Retain an open mind to avoid a rude awakening. My experience was very humbling. There is much at work in this universe we don't understand. A healthy skepticism keeps us grounded, but if you can adapt and roll with the punches, no challenge is too much to bear.

The mind is a beautiful thing. It is malleable, and can be a source of joy or turmoil. Keep it healthy, and perhaps turn it off on occasion. In the words of our favorite sensitive rapper, "Don't think about it too much." There is a reason the guy in the statue above is stationary.