Man’s Search for Meaning

There was once a rich man who wanted to find the meaning of life, and committed all his wealth and influence in this endeavour. He started by forming a research group that gathered and analyzed every single information; everything that has ever been written about life’s purpose and its meaning. 

He then spoke with the brightest professors, philosophers and theologians. He even went to the leaders of each religion – asking two very simple questions: What is the meaning of life? What are we supposed to do here on earth and in this life?

However, even after five years of extensive research, he still did not have a clear definition of the meaning of life. There were more theories than answers. He was now more confused than when he first started. 

He began to lose hope. What if there is no purpose? What if there is no meaning? What if this is all there is to it – that there is nothing more in life?

Doubts began to cloud his mind. What if I just wasted five years of my life?

As he went through the last bits of information that came to him, he began to read about story (more like a legend) of a wise monk living in a monastery high above the Himalayas. According to the story, the sage was so wise that he could answer any question brought before him. This is my last chance, he thought. Maybe I can find my answers from age-old wisdom!

He spent the next 2 years in search of this wise sage of the Himalayas. He travelled to every village in the area, and spoke to every chieftain and wise man he could find. Yet, no one knew of the fabled wise monk.

Then one day, he came across an ancient map that detailed the location of a great temple in the mountains. This is it! He thought. I have finally found where the wise sage lives!

With only a local guide with him, he trekked up the treacherous mountains of the Himalayas. It took him nearly three weeks to reach his destination. 

The temple was a magnificent sight! Sitting on top of the highest mountain peak, it looked like a colossal fortress in the clouds. 

At last, I will finally get my answers. The rich man couldn’t help but smile as he was led to a massive chamber with nothing but a few wooden tables and chairs. At the centre of the room, sat the wise monk of the Himalayas.

The rich man bowed to the great sage and asked his two questions.

What is the meaning of life? What are we supposed to do here on earth and in this life?

The wise monk stared at the rich man for a few seconds, then uttered only two words in response.
​
Look within.

The journey to find our purpose and mission in life starts within us. There is no general answer that will apply for everyone. 

Our journey through life is very personal. We have to discover the answers for ourselves. The meaning of our life is unique for each one of us. We have our own life to live, our own true selves to discover, and our own mission and purpose to fulfil. 

Each of us is a unique being. We are built for a specific role. We need to accept and understand our uniqueness, our true nature. What makes us different from everybody else? What makes us unique? Finding ourselves is not a quick, easy and one-time process. It is a life-long journey of discovery.

Look within and master yourself first. Discover and develop your passions, talents and abilities. Be true to your nature, and live the life you are supposed to live. Do the things that come naturally. Do what truly makes you happy. 

In the process, you will live life fully and completely. You will be happier and more at peace. Everything will seem to fall into place. Things will all feel natural. 

By being true to ourselves, we will change for the better. We will evolve. And we will gain a deeper understanding of our life’s mission and purpose. 

​“Learn to get in touch with the silence within yourself, and know that everything in life has purpose.” - Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, M.D.

Life has a purpose.

The search for life’s purpose is a very personal journey. The meaning of life is unique for each one of us. We have to look within ourselves, and ask deep questions. 

Our personalities, passions, talents and abilities all point to our unique role in life and in the world. We are built for a specific mission and purpose. 

And this purpose is revealed to us as we discover our true selves, and live life to the fullest.