You will never reach enlightenment. However, you can become enlightened. Read Ben’s story about how he learned that lesson.
Ben and Jacob had been friends since childhood, but their paths in life had taken them in different directions. Ben was a seeker, always searching for something greater, something profound that would give his life meaning. Jacob, on the other hand, seemed to have found a sense of peace and fulfilment that Ben couldn’t quite grasp.
Ben travelled far and wide, attending workshops, reading countless books on philosophy and spirituality, and meditating for hours each day. He was determined to reach enlightenment, to find that ultimate state of understanding and bliss. Every new experience brought him hope but also frustration, as he felt he was always just out of reach of his goal.
One summer, Ben visited Jacob in the small, serene village where Jacob had settled. As they sat on the porch of Jacob’s modest home, Ben shared his struggles.
“I’ve been everywhere, tried everything,” Ben sighed. “But I still feel like enlightenment is always just one step ahead of me. How did you find it, Jacob? How did you reach enlightenment?”
Jacob smiled, his eyes calm and steady. “Ben, enlightenment isn’t a place you reach. It’s not a destination at the end of a long journey. It’s a way of being, a state of mind.”
Ben looked puzzled. “But how can that be? I’ve read so many teachings that describe it as the ultimate goal.”
Jacob nodded. “Many teachings describe it that way, but the essence of enlightenment is in the present moment. It’s about being fully aware and accepting of life as it is, without constantly striving for something else. I used to be like you, always searching. Then, one day, I realised that the search itself was keeping me from seeing the truth. Enlightenment is not something you find; it’s something you become.”
Ben pondered Jacob’s words, still unsure. “So, what should I do?”
“Stop searching,” Jacob replied gently. “Start living. Be present in each moment, and accept yourself as you are. When you let go of the need to reach enlightenment, you’ll find that it’s already within you.”
Over the next few days, Ben tried to follow Jacob’s advice. He spent time in the village, observing the simple beauty of everyday life, talking to the locals, and sitting quietly by the river. Gradually, he began to feel a sense of peace that had eluded him for so long. He realised that in his relentless pursuit of enlightenment, he had overlooked the beauty and wisdom of the present moment.
One evening, as the sun set over the hills, Ben sat with Jacob once more. He didn’t need to say anything; the contentment in his eyes spoke volumes.
Jacob smiled. “You see, Ben, enlightenment isn’t something you chase after. It’s something you allow yourself to experience here and now.”
From that day forward, Ben stopped searching and started being. He found joy in the simplicity of life, and in doing so, he finally understood what it meant to be enlightened. Jacob had shown him that the journey to enlightenment was not about reaching a distant goal but about embracing the present with an open heart and a peaceful mind.
Remember, nothing of importance is found at your destination if you don’t enjoy the journey.
