By Christa Moore
Have you ever thought about what time really is? Has anyone ever actually seen it? We know time exists because we see the sun rise and set, marking the passing of days. But where does that time go?
Every day, we witness small changes. The seasons rotate predictably, and while our bodies change gradually, we might not notice it until we see someone after a long time and realize they’ve aged. If we see them daily, these changes are less obvious because they happen so slowly.
Time is all about perception and it’s unique to each person. Our experience of time differs based on what we’re doing. Happiness or excitement makes time fly, while pain makes it drag. Great civilizations have risen and fallen, all because of time’s relentless march. Eventually, time takes everything away.
I remember when my body was young and full of energy. Now, it’s old and worn out. People treat me differently now, often avoiding me because society tends to disregard the elderly. My vision and mobility have declined, and I struggle with modern technology—though I’m not complaining, it’s just how things are. I need daily naps and have little energy.
When I was younger, I saw older people sitting on their porches all day and wondered how they could just sit there. Now I understand that sometimes, that’s all they can manage. I once thought they were lazy, but now I see it from their perspective. Time has given me empathy I didn’t have before.
Experiencing the aches, stiffness, and low energy that come with age has made me more empathetic towards older people. Being older has changed me for the better by making me more understanding.
A philosophy I’ve studied for over thirty years teaches that we are more than our aging bodies. We are eternal spiritual beings. By chanting, listening to, and remembering the names of the Supreme Being, I’ve found relief from the pains of aging.
This practice of meditation has freed me from the fear of aging and death. I no longer worry about my appearance because I know my true self isn’t tied to this physical body. This is real freedom. I still take good care of my body, seeing it as a precious gift, but I don’t stress over wrinkles or gray hair anymore.
I’ve dedicated myself to uncovering my true spiritual self, which is the essence of self-realization. Through seeking, I’ve found the answers I needed, guided by my spiritual teacher Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupanda Paramahamsa, sacred texts, and the Supreme Being in my heart.
Thank you for reading!