True liberation begins when your joy no longer requires a reason. If your peace depends on the weather, your bank account, or the approval of others, you are not free—you are a hostage to circumstances. Your true happiness and satisfaction should not depend on anything.
To live authentically, you must stop performing. Do not be happy with life by showing off. When we seek to impress, we build a cage of expectations. Real fulfillment is quiet; it doesn’t need an audience.
The Mirror of Criticism vs. The Trap of Praise
In the spiritual journey, we often crave validation, yet genuine criticism will help you more than false praise. Why? Because praise often feeds the ego and keeps you stagnant, whereas criticism shows you your limitations.
- Stay Level: Never get over-excited by the praise of others; it is often fleeting.
- Stay Steady: Do not be discouraged by criticism.
If you view both as mere data points rather than personal attacks, you remain the master of your own internal climate.
Guarding Your Inner Sanctuary
No matter how the world treats you, do not pollute your inner space. The moment you get angry because of someone else’s actions, you have given them the keys to your soul. Do not give your control to others.
You can—and should—respect the opinions and ideologies of others. Understanding different perspectives is a sign of wisdom. However, do not be a slave to anyone. Listen with an open mind, but keep your heart anchored in your own truth.
The Ultimate Betrayal
There is no greater loss than the loss of one’s own soul. Do not betray your true authentic self for any gain. Whether it is for money, status, or belonging, the price is too high. If you cannot be yourself, even if you gain the whole world, that world will feel empty and meaningless.
The Peace of an Innocent Heart
When you are truly yourself, the noise of the world fades into the background. Even if the whole world criticizes you, there is no problem. Why? Because when you are aligned with your authentic natural rhythm, you are satisfied in front of your own heart. You are “innocent”—meaning you are free from the internal conflict of pretending to be something you are not.
Remain yourself at all times. Live with such integrity that when your journey eventually comes to an end, you can say goodbye with a satisfied conscience.