life, and how we play our part in it

We all live our lives in unique ways. Some feel they have a larger part to play, while others believe their role is less significant. However, the truth is, we all have a part to play. We fulfill it perfectly, even if we don't always recognize it.

Understanding Life’s Journey

It can be difficult, even impossible, to grasp why certain events happen in our lives. Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche once told me that understanding "why" can elude us. The cycle of existence is vast, often beyond our perception. The causes for our current experiences may stem from distant past lives, far removed from our present. Without the perspective of a Buddha, our human view alone may not reveal the depths of our circumstances.

A Life-Changing Experience in Australia

I realized this truth during a trip to Australia when I had a profound out-of-body experience. I assure you, no substances were involved. I spent around eight hours floating in and out of my body, observing the room from above. I could move down to each person in the room, interacting with them in their dreams. Some even remembered me when they woke up. It was as if I could engage in dreams from a global perspective.

When morning arrived, I went to grab coffee. The TV in our lounge was on, reporting that a nuclear war nearly ignited between India and Pakistan while we slept. Thankfully, tensions cooled. I recalled a dream where I approached an airport desk and asked a woman for a ticket to India or Pakistan. She coldly denied me permission. In that moment, I felt my anger rise, transforming into an explosive energy. It felt as though a nuclear bomb detonated, upending my reality.

Upon opening my eyes, I was back in the room, overwhelmed by an understanding that transcended my previous comprehension. My friends and I discussed the extraordinary night we had experienced. We all felt like we had participated in something much greater than our individual lives. It is as if two parallel paths exist: one representing our everyday selves, and another unfolding a deeper reality. In that secondary life, we play different roles, fulfilling our purpose even if the reasons remain hidden from us.

The Bigger Picture

In my experience, when we die, everything eventually makes perfect sense. But by then, it is too late to return. We have transitioned to the next cycle of existence, a stage in the enduring game of Samsara.

What a trip this life is!

So, don’t confine your thinking to small concepts about your life. You are the entire universe, unfolding its narrative. We are moving forward, experiencing the seemingly tangible reality of our lives and those around us. Time progresses, encompassing everything we see and feel.

A Profound Conversation

Today, we visited a dear friend, a respected Rabbi. About 15 years ago, he posed a thought-provoking question to me:

"What is the opposite of life?"

I quickly responded, "Death."

But he corrected me, saying, "No, that is the opposite of birth."

A silence fell over us.

"Then I do not know," I replied, bewildered.

He explained, "There is no opposite to life. Life simply is. You are born and you die, eternally cycling within it."

In those moments when you feel insignificant, remember this: You are vitally important to the intricate fabric of reality. Your role in this ongoing show called “LIFE” is more vital than you may realize.

Embracing Your Role

In the days when life feels small, take a breath. You are deeply woven into the very essence of existence. Recognize how truly important you are in this grand play.

May we all achieve enlightenment and see the truth as it is, benefitting all sentient beings!

Just thought I would share these reflections with you. Who knows? I might transition to my next role before the day ends!

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Life’s Journey continues to unfold for each of us, filled with mystery and profound connections.