Have you found your North?

A few years ago, I visited Mohe, a northern city in China, near the border of Russia, to catch the northern lights. I was walking in a park and saw this 5 to 6m tall pillar with the words “I have found my North!” inscribed in Chinese characters. I was very intrigued by it and it evoked a sense of curiosity in me.

What is your North? Where is your North? If you asked a 5-year old what he/she wants to be when he/she grows up, what do you think he/she will say? Would he/she know? When you asked a 21-year old, do you think he/she knows any better? When you asked a 50-year old, what do think he/she will say? When you asked an 80-year old, what do you think? He/she will probably say I wish to wake up every day with no ache and pain in my body.

At different stages in our lives, we have different aspirations. Our aspirations evolve as we go through different circumstances and experiences in life.  There is no point worrying too much about things that we can’t control or change. So, go with the flow like water. Water appears soft and weak but when it combines its strength, it can become powerful as a waterfall and produce hydro power. Water is so soft yet have immense power. It flows in places that we can’t reach or see, like cracks in the grounds. Through its continuous flow it can erode the hardest place over time.  “Dripping water can eat through a stone.” (Chinese proverb). If you encounter any difficulty in life, think of water. Practise the art of patience and over time, your difficulty will erode.  Ask yourself: “Will this matter in one year time, 5 years’ time?  If not, then let it go. 

“If heaven made him, earth can find some use for him.” (Chinese Proverb).  You are here on this earth for a purpose. If you are still not clear what your purpose is, it’s time to find your North. A small step towards finding your North is to start charting your life today. Bring out the yet to be discovered inner wisdom, talent and creativity in you. “Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid of standing still.” (Chinese Proverb). It is up to you to steer your life in the direction you wish to go.