Living Below "The Sheer Fact of Things"
Life often feels like a relentless series of events and circumstances that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and out of control. For a long time, I found myself constantly reacting to these external factors—problems, issues, or even positive events—without realizing the toll it was taking on my mental and emotional well-being. This constant state of reaction, where my peace and happiness were at the mercy of my surroundings, left me feeling anxious and unsettled.
Living below "the sheer fact of things" is a concept that has profoundly changed my approach to life. It means not being affected by the external "things" that occur around me. Instead, it involves cultivating a deeper sense of peace, calm, and love that comes from within. This is not a state I have mastered, but it's one I am increasingly aware of and strive towards every day.
I've had many "teachers" in my life—books, mentors, experiences—that have helped me understand that living life on the surface is what causes the most pain and anxiety. Reacting to every wave of circumstance without grounding myself led to a life of turbulence. Learning to dive deeper within myself, below the surface turmoil, has been a journey of personal growth and enlightenment.
The analogy of the ocean perfectly encapsulates this lesson. When you are near the surface, the waves can toss you around violently. I remember body surfing as a teenager and feeling the power of the ocean’s surface waves. The deeper I was able to dive under the wave, the calmer and more peaceful the experience became. This is a vivid reminder of how staying connected to my deeper self can provide stability amidst life's storms.
Nature has always been a profound teacher for me. Observing the ocean, the trees, and the sky, I see how they weather storms, yet always return to a state of calm. Similarly, I aim to emulate this resilience and tranquility by anchoring myself below the superficial layers of my daily life. When I focus on my inner world, I find a wellspring of peace and strength that external circumstances cannot disturb.
Living below the sheer fact of things is about developing an inner sanctuary where the external cannot reach. It’s about mindfulness, self-awareness, and intentional living. Here are a few practices that have helped me dive deeper:
1. Mindfulness Meditation: Regular meditation helps me center myself and observe my thoughts and feelings without being swept away by them. It’s a practice of staying present and grounded.
2. Journaling: Writing about my experiences and emotions allows me to process them on a deeper level, giving me clarity and insight. This practice has been instrumental in helping me understand the deeper layers of my psyche and emotions.
3. Nature Walks: Spending time in nature helps me connect with the natural world’s rhythm and calm, reminding me of the beauty of stillness and resilience. Walking in the woods or by the sea can be a powerful way to ground oneself and find peace.
4. Breathwork: Focusing on my breath during moments of stress helps me reconnect with my inner calm and reduces anxiety. Deep, conscious breathing is a simple yet effective tool for diving below the surface stressors.
5. Gratitude Practice: Cultivating gratitude shifts my focus from external problems to the abundance and peace within. By regularly acknowledging the positives in my life, I reinforce a deeper sense of contentment and stability.
6. Therapeutic Support: Working with therapists and healers has provided me with insights and techniques to navigate my inner world more effectively. Their guidance has been invaluable in helping me stay anchored below the tumultuous surface.
7. Retreats and Workshops: Attending retreats and workshops focused on personal growth and spiritual development has been another way for me to dive deeper. These immersive experiences offer intensive learning and profound insights.
While I am still on this journey and have much to learn, the awareness of living below the surface has already brought more tranquility and fulfillment into my life. It’s a reminder that true peace comes not from controlling the external world but from finding stillness within.
As you navigate your own path, remember that the deeper you go within yourself, the more equipped you are to handle the waves of life. By diving below the sheer fact of things, you can find a place of unshakeable peace and strength that no external force can disrupt.
In conclusion, living below the surface is about cultivating an inner calm that is not easily disturbed by the external world. It's about embracing mindfulness, self-reflection, and intentional practices that help us stay grounded. This deeper way of living allows us to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace, finding true peace and happiness from within.