This year, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn to reading works that explore mindfulness, spirituality, and philosophy. As I delve into these texts, I’m reminded of how vast human history truly is and how ancient teachings continue to offer insights for our lives today. A recent visit to Fort Sumter drove this point home for me. Standing at a site where pivotal events unfolded only 162 years ago, I was struck by how history connects us across time. In contrast, my recent readings on Buddhism have introduced me to ideas that originated thousands of years earlier, yet they feel just as relevant.

One of the core reasons I’m exploring these philosophical and spiritual teachings is because of a desire to understand life’s deeper meanings—especially as someone who’s decided not to have children. This decision has pushed me to look for a sense of purpose beyond traditional paths, leading me to question what it truly means to live a meaningful life. In these teachings, I see the reflections of generations of thinkers who grappled with similar questions.

A Journey Through Wisdom

As I read The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts and Living Buddha, Living Christ by Thich Nhat Hanh, I find ideas that resonate deeply. For example, Watts writes, “If happiness always depends on something expected in the future, we are chasing a will-o’-the-wisp that ever eludes our grasp.” This line speaks directly to the cycle of expectation and disappointment that I sometimes find myself caught in, especially when my thoughts drift toward the future. It’s a reminder to find fulfillment in the present rather than in some distant “perfect” moment.

Similarly, Thich Nhat Hanh’s reflections on keeping many doors to spiritual enlightenment open remind me that spirituality can be a broad, inclusive path. His emphasis on focusing on the shared elements between Buddhism and Christianity rather than rigid differences resonates with me. This approach reassures me that I can draw from multiple traditions without feeling confined to any single one.

Organized Religion vs. Personal Exploration

My approach to these teachings, however, doesn’t come without a bit of tension. I’ve always felt some resistance to organized religion. This tension grew as I learned more about the history of religious institutions and how they evolved, often shaped by human motivations that might stray from the original teachings. While Buddhism’s core ideas appeal to me, the structure and rules that sometimes come with organized practice feel restrictive.

Recently, listening to the Sacred Texts of the World series has underscored this feeling. In Buddhism, for instance, the essence is often about simplicity and mindfulness, but the organized forms of practice can add layers that don’t always resonate with me. I respect the traditions, but I find myself drawn to a more fluid, flexible way of exploring these teachings—a way that allows for personal interpretation and adaptation.

This also connects to my excitement about starting The Perennial Philosophy by Aldous Huxley, which examines the common threads across religions. I’m intrigued by the idea that each tradition may hold universal truths that resonate with people across different cultures and eras. This concept feels like a bridge between my desire for spiritual insight and my hesitation about the strict boundaries often found in organized religion.

Bringing Philosophy into Daily Life

As I engage with these philosophies, I find myself drawn to mindfulness practices that ground me in the present. Walking my dog, tending to my garden, or simply observing the world through my camera lens have become acts of mindfulness, giving me a sense of peace and presence. These moments are small but feel deeply meaningful, reminding me that spirituality isn’t only found in texts or theories but in the everyday practices that allow me to be fully here, now.

Meditation has also started to play a more consistent role in my life. Though it’s often associated with Buddhism, meditation is a universal practice that allows anyone, regardless of their beliefs, to find stillness and clarity. I’m still experimenting with it, trying to find a routine that suits me, but even brief moments of quiet have made a difference.

Finding Purpose and Connection

As I read and reflect, I’ve noticed a subtle shift in how I view purpose. The more I learn, the more I realize that the quest for meaning is something humans have pursued across time and cultures. This journey has made me feel connected to a larger human story, and it’s given me a greater appreciation for figures like the Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad—teachers from different traditions who sought to illuminate life’s deeper truths.

Exploring these ideas has also influenced my relationships and conversations. I feel more open to hearing others’ perspectives and more at ease with the idea that there is no single “right” answer. Whether it’s a moment shared with a friend, a book that sparks new insights, or a quiet evening alone, I’m learning to embrace life’s moments with curiosity rather than certainty.

Ultimately, these teachings are helping me shape a personal sense of spirituality—one that values presence, compassion, and the shared humanity in us all. As I continue this journey, I’m finding a kind of fulfillment that isn’t tied to traditional goals or milestones but is instead rooted in a continuous exploration of what it means to live a meaningful, mindful life.