Rumi wisely wrote, “What you seek is seeking you.”   There have been moments lately where I look at my life and become unsatisfied.  I feel a huge responsibility because I believe the energy and love put into the universe inherently matters. The fears and insecurities attached to success both personally and professionally have hindered me from going for the life I want. Intrinsically, I know that is inadmissible.  I will never be satiated settling for a life that does not reflect who I am and what I desire.

This past week I’ve been thrust into some major life decisions. The stakes are higher than ever before. And I have felt a fear so lucid and present it has frightened me, made me angry, depressed, but most importantly ignited a fire within. Fear is like a shadow, always lurking.  But lately it has been an unparalleled motivator. And as I  push past my fear, it has lead to discovery and awakening.

I haven’t felt completely sane.  Mulling over the past year, I’ve tried to reconcile my indignation and frustration at what feels like stunted and un-evolved progress. But it occurred to me, in order to maintain equanimity and the strength to keep going, I must find meaning in everything, especially that which causes me pain.

It’s not an easy realization but opposition is part of growth.  In order to receive the gifts I desire, I must first overcome the many obstacles and trials thrown my way.   Though pain is individual our suffering is collective. At some point it’s begun to sink in that pain is part of the pursuit.

Life is a puzzle we slowly work to put together. When I’m able to search within, I find answers and clarity. I often want an exterior validation and sign that I’m making the right decisions. This is not necessary.  Inherently, I know the way.

In times of turbulence I routinely imbibe Rumi’s uncanny insight.  In honor of his wisdom I complied a list of twelve of my favorite quotes.  It has been a crazy week and I have been more than a bit lost.  But after reading some Rumi, I started to see the light.

1. Do your passion.

“Let yourself be drawn by the stronger pull of that which you truly love.”

2. Look within.

“You are the universe in ecstatic motion.”

3. Own it. 

“Suffering is a gift. In it is hidden mercy … The cure for pain is in the pain.”

4. F*** fear.

“Forget safety. Live where you fear to live.”

5. Find the meaning in everything.

“Beauty surrounds us.”

6. Stay hungry.

“The lion is most handsome when looking for food.”

7. See the good in everyone. 

“Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.” 

8. Smile & keep your head up. 

“Shine like the whole universe is yours.”

9. Problem solve. 

“Look for the answer inside your question.”

10. Hold off on complaining.

“No more words … stay quiet like a flower. So the nightbirds will start singing.”

11. No regrets.

“Don’t grieve. Anything you lose comes round in another form. … What hurts you, blesses you. Darkness is your candle.”

12. Stay the course.

“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.”