Each of us enters this life from a previous state of development. We all have our own individual karma to work out during this life. In order to work out our karma, we must evolve to a higher spiritual place then we are now. To accomplish this, we must develop a strong chakra system (as my teacher S calls it) within us so we can connect to our higher self, god, higher creative energy, the spirit of the universe, whatever you want to call it. It is from there that we receive all wisdom and deeper understanding. This is a lifelong journey. However, we are also granted the ability to explore the physical world and gain a wide variety of experiences. Between inner guidance and outer experience in the world, we evolve.

Coming from the condition of being ADHD, I tend to cycle through a series of activities. As I lose interest in one I start becoming interested in another. The driving interest brings me a lot of inner joy and satisfaction. I've come to accept this pattern and I no longer become saddened when one project fades from my scope of interest. I simply pack the stuff I was exploring and working on and shelf it, while I pull out the material I need for where my drive and interest have directed me. There are some projects I hope I complete in this life and many I know I likely won't. The older one gets, the more he is reminded that life is a short-time experience. That is ok. I've accepted all these things as simply how my life works, and I am at peace with it.

However, the one constant I strive to maintain is my spiritual practice. I see so many join our group and then soon leave again. No judgement; they likely got what they needed at the time they were here. Not everyone is ready to commit to their own development. Many are “digging holes” as Rudi called it, looking for a practice that resonates for them. I've seen some that come to meditation practice for a while, leave, and return again. It is another pattern. Whatever people choose to do is where they are, and it's not about being right or wrong. These are mental constructs anyway; part of maya. Whatever we do leads to learning and gaining experience. If we generate a lot more karma than we overcome in this life, it just adds to what needs to be overcome and worked out in future lifes.

I don't focus on suffering as the path to Enlightenment. As far as I can tell, it is a valid path. Life is more like a mountain. Even if it looks different from the North side than the South, it's still the same mountain. I don't see the personification of God in all things either, but recognize that is another valid path to Enlightenment for some. The important thing I see is to stay away from “belief systems." They only entrap you. Develop your inner life as well as your outer life. Life seems to work more pleasantly when balanced. After you've selected the practice you feel is right for you, try to discipline yourself enough to remain on it as long as you can. Do some inner work every day. Grow. Love. Expand. Enjoy.