Chapter 1: The Value of Experience

Living selflessly often brings unique insights into our lives. As we progress through various experiences, we start to discern that what we once deemed invaluable may not hold the same worth. Conversely, aspects we considered detrimental might actually prove beneficial. To fully comprehend this reality, we need to encounter a range of situations and learn from our failures and setbacks.

Experiencing difficulties is crucial to grasping these lessons. Many individuals come to this realization later in life, potentially losing the essence of the lesson along the way. Thus, it becomes imperative to navigate both positive and negative experiences to gain true understanding. Determining the actual impact of a situation can be challenging; we often believe something to be true until we discover otherwise.

Reflecting on our past beliefs, we often find that things we once deemed crucial lose their significance over time. The viewpoint we held at sixteen differs greatly from that at thirty-two. If we haven’t gained this insight by then, it might only become clear at forty, leaving us questioning the years wasted and the time spent in vain.

There’s an anecdote about a couple who died in a car crash and found themselves in heaven. The first thing they noticed was an astonishingly beautiful golf course. As they began to play, the husband suddenly looked disheartened.

“What’s wrong?” the wife asked, captivated by the scenery.

With a frown, he replied, “Had it not been for all the strict diets and medications you insisted on for my longevity, I would have arrived here much sooner.”

This narrative underscores how our attempts to extend life and maintain health can, in hindsight, seem futile when viewed from a broader perspective.

Chapter 2: The Deception of Mind and Body

Our mind and body can mislead us into believing that certain choices are correct, only for us to later experience regret. This regret often stems from not contemplating our decisions thoroughly enough.

This tendency is prevalent in society as well. People often react impulsively to new information, which can lead to adverse consequences down the line. Old adages come to mind: “What good is it to have peanuts if you’ve lost all your teeth?” or “What’s the use of a comb when you’ve gone bald?” Likewise, what value is there in acquiring wisdom after squandering half your life? It’s essential to recognize truths at the appropriate time, rather than too late. Each experience is a lesson that must be learned promptly.

Wisdom should ideally come to us when we are young and in good health, ready to embrace life ahead. It’s insufficient to learn lessons only when it’s too late. Wisdom should guide us while we can still apply it meaningfully, rather than discovering it after the fact.

Every experience, whether good or bad, carries lessons we need to grasp in due time. Cultivating wisdom requires intention; we must focus on what truly matters. Sometimes, we invest considerable time and effort expecting improvement, only to encounter greater challenges.

The realization that we may help someone who later betrays us can be a harsh truth.

Through numerous experiences, we come to recognize that the insight gained often arrives too late. While wisdom is often associated with age, we should strive to acquire it earlier. Experiences cannot be purchased; they unfold naturally when we maintain an open mind. If we shy away from engaging with life, we miss out on essential lessons.

Life cannot be evaded; it must be fully experienced. Each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth. For instance, losing a significant amount of money or facing serious conflicts in a relationship might tempt you to give up.

However, you might be surprised at your innate desire to live when you attempt to hold your breath. The mind may deceive you, but the urge to survive is inherent. Life must be lived in its entirety before we can move on. True freedom and peace arise from comprehending life in its fullness, not from avoidance. If we manage to acquire the wisdom of a sixty-year-old at the age of sixteen, we know we have genuinely learned from our experiences.

Good and bad experiences will continue to arise, but we shouldn't let them disturb our peace. Instead, look beyond these occurrences to discover true freedom. This is merely my perspective shaped by my own journey; yours may differ. Avoid wasting resources by placing blind trust in others. Those who genuinely need assistance will find their way. Even if the branch you sit upon withers, always maintain faith in yourself.