Path

A life lived on waves of sentiment is unlikely to stay on a path to mindfulness and compassion. Post-holiday depressions are common among those who focus their minds on one event after another as a distraction from who they really are or what they know in their hearts they should be doing for their own good and the greater good. The passing of a holiday or special event leaves a vacuum, where there is no solid daily practice.

Addiction to sentimentality can be very powerful. It is a form of self-stimulation. Emotions are intentionally stoked by anticipation of or participation in an activity which will yield a predictable emotional response. Riding the wave of that emotional response is like shooting up for those who are hooked. This is common among people who frequent sporting events or rock concerts. Adding alcohol or other intoxicating substances to the mix is a natural progression.

The vacuums between highs can be painful as well as depressing. Squandering time on planning and participating in one high after another doesn't leave much time for meditation and reflection on the true direction and purpose of a life. Avoidance of self-discovery leads inevitably to self-alienation. Lack of engagement with yourself prevents meaningful and sustaining engagement with others.

A committed daily practice of actively structuring routine times for proper nutrition, exercise and meditation is curative and sustaining. As you develop a healthy relationship with your own mind and body, you will naturally progress to developing healthy relationships with others. This process is called choosing your Way, or your Path. It is not complicated. It does not require a guru. It simply requires a commitment to yourself to create peace and love within your own body and your own life. The rest will follow quite naturally.