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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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One thing to consider though, is this: If we are feeling isolated, lonely, or withdrawn– maybe this is a call to change!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.
