Mind, body, and soul

 

Mind, body, and soul

Life is short. “The story of my life” can be a mournful lament or a song of joyful praise. Some of it has to do with what we do, most of it has to do with how we react. People often say “as long as it makes you happy” when referring to choices. Happiness is a fickle feeling that ebbs and flows. Joy is a state of being. The universe is not fair and the cards we are dealt are just that, the circumstances we find ourselves. How can we play the cards for the best outcome?

Our mind is a powerful tool. Learning to use it is a lifetime challenge. Problem solving, playing games, and learning are ways to keep sharp. Cognitive decline is inevitable, but we can slow the rate. It is indeed harder to learn as we age but, wisdom can come with experience. The “voices in our head” can be powerful assets or horrible obstacles. The stereotypical self-help guru chanting affirmations in the mirror has some merit. Harnessing the background noise can provide stability. “My mind is quite, I am at peace.” is a useful mantra. Learning internal silence is one of the most challenging and rewarding skills a human with a brain can acquire. It is beyond the scope of this essay but, start with meditation and observation. Part of most meditation methods include focused breath control.

The body is the vessel in which our mind resides and oxygen is essential. The breath of life indeed. Our mental health is tied directly to the physical. The biological process of converting fuel and oxygen to energy, movement and structure is incredible. Things we can do to become the most effective and efficient creature include exercise, nutrition and rest. Our bodies, like our minds do best with consistent healthy movement. Just a little daily movement is more beneficial than going nuts and over-exercising randomly. Challenging yourself is not wrong but, understand that running a marathon is hard on the body and recovery is essential. Strength, flexibility and endurance are the elements of a fitness program. Fuel for the machine is important.

Nutrition is a complex subject. “You are what you eat, from your head down to your feet” so eating junk will make you feel like junk. Simple guidelines are to eat food, mainly vegetables, if it comes from a plant eat it, if it was made in a plant pass.

The soul is a component many people deny or gloss over. The concept that we exist beyond our mortal shell is deep. The thought of eternal consequences for our actions is daunting. One can struggle with the concept but, I quit fighting and accepted it as true. Descartes has an illuminating discussion. Being “right with the universe” is a phrase that although overused has power. I find that the question: “is there a God?” boils down to yes or no. I choose yes. Intellectually it is debatable, viscerally I find it self-evident. If you are ready sincerely pray: “God if you are real, show me.”

Assuming that God exists one is presented with the challenge of the nature of God. I wondered and searched. The choice of an all powerful being outside of time and space that created the universe with a purpose, and thus, me for a purpose was my conclusion. Many faiths have many routes. I heard the Gospel many times but, never really internalized it for decades. The transformation is incredible. I no longer just live for myself. Prayer is a conduit to peace. Even if you do not believe the power of speaking sets your feeble human mind on a path. If you seek wisdom you may find it. It is often not the answer you were looking for but, the one you need.

The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. As I studied I was not sure if I was the evil created for the day of wrath. I have evolved to understand that fire ants have a purpose and so do I. Grace is liberating and healing. Passing it on is powerful and provides eternal joy. Understanding that God loves us and we are created to share that with creation. There are some harder concepts I struggle with like my strong survival instincts and the morality of ending another being's life.

I ponder my mission daily. Better a warrior in the garden than a gardener in battle. Being in nature is good for the soul. If you are silent you may hear. If you make noise make it joyful.