Most stories of enlightenment start out the same. Someone, somewhere is seeking the truth. They leave home, become detached from society, give up worldly pleasures, family and friends, contemplate life and death, and end up accepting, embracing, and warranting a slower, more meaningful representation of life.
One thing I’ve noticed is that many of the initial signs of this process are identical to the symptoms of depression. When one is going through this process, it is easy to feel left out, alone, and confused. I mean, let’s face it, not everyone is on a journey of truth, and sometimes it is worth questioning,
Does discontent lead to enlightenment?
Stages of Depression |
Steps to Enlightenment |
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One thing to notice is that the outcomes of depression and enlightenment are separate, even though the stages look nearly the same.
At the end of the depression cycle, we see people feeling helpless, separate, and faithless.
At the end of the enlightenment process, people feel contented, at peace, and fulfilled as they are.
One thing to consider though, is this: If we are feeling isolated, lonely, or withdrawn– maybe this is a call to change! Maybe we are feeling different because we ARE DIFFERENT. Maybe it is because we Want SOMETHING DIFFERENT. And maybe, that isn’t such a bad thing.
You Can Go Your Own Way
Many people that I have met on my travels have confided in me that before they left home, they were suffering from depression. A lot of these folks were on medication for it. Since following their dream, getting away from a reality they didn’t buy into, and taking daily steps towards a meaningful life, they’ve made the transition towards the path of the happy. The friends that I know have gotten off the meds, and on with their life.
My purpose in writing this article is to encourage you to take notice of your emotional state. It could be that if you are experiencing depression, you need to make some major changes in your life.
If you are on a spiritual path, know that there are times that you will feel isolated, lonely, and confused. While this has been the happiest time of my life, I’ve also broken down in tears and sobbed more times than ever! Part of this process is breaking down and falling apart, so recognize it for what it is… transformational change.
Facing yourself is hard! It’s uncomfortable, and it’s an emotional roller coaster. But, if you stay determined to stick through the uncomfortable-ness of it all, you will come out on the other side.
Twitter Updates
24 May 2010 at 12:23 pm
Interesting observations, Brooke.
You have given me something more to ponder.
Rasheed
1 June 2010 at 8:26 am
Hi
“Since following their dream, getting away from a reality they didn’t buy into, and taking daily steps towards a meaningful life, they’ve made the transition towards the path of the happy.”
An intresting discussion. There are similarities i see you point. Maybe depression is a step on the path to enlightnment. Sadly when i have step along the path i keep going back to my old ways. someday il find the strength to keep walking
regards
steve
2 June 2010 at 6:57 am
Hi, two more thought to add to your procees maynot fir but
Steve Jobs said: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
regards
2 June 2010 at 6:29 pm
Steve – Wow! Great quote, I have goosebumps! I actually really needed to hear that today. Thanks for sharing. And good luck on your path, as well.
12 July 2010 at 12:20 am
This is a link that I find really fascinating. Consider the Dark Night of the Soul concept that has been around forever http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Night_of_the_Soul too.
The stages represent various types of stresses. One way to perceive them is that “things aren’t quite working like they used to”, showing the world around you is growing more complex than you are used to. This evolutionary _tension_ puts you in a position to grow, if all the right conditions are in place. If they aren’t, then it will probably appear to be what we call depression.
I’m seeing it in a lot of friends who are around 20-25 right now.
14 July 2010 at 10:49 pm
Hi Ross,
Thanks for writing. I checked out your link, very interesting stuff!! It is funny how sometimes the need for change can be such a powerful emotion. One of the things I’ve been working on lately is to not resist that feeling or immediately run from the discomfort (as I have in the past), but to stay with it and realize if it is an opportunity to grow.
I like your idea of it being an evolution or process. Because we cannot predict if we are going to like a new situation until we try it. Also, the learning curve will always be uncomfortable (which I find over and over again living abroad). But, in the end, what I’m learning to ask myself is this: Is it fulfilling? Is it rewarding? Is this supporting my long term goals? … and then take it from there.
I’ve seen it a lot in my friends, too, as I feel we are all questioning our values and constantly trying to readjust. Not sure if this process ever gets any easier?!?!?! You?
6 September 2010 at 1:33 pm
Here’s the link to the Steve Jobs speech you’re referencing. I came across it years ago and was stuck on the same quote. I’m glad you allowed me to think of it once again. Great piece of writing, Brooke, thank you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc