truth – The Wild Gems

I was listening to a podcast recently, and the host shared an interesting perspective: he believed that life often makes us repeat certain patterns or lessons until we finally “get it.” It was a humbling realization for him, but his guest gently challenged him, saying, “That might be true for you, but it doesn’t mean it’s the truth for everyone.”

This idea really struck me. How often do we assume that what feels true for us must automatically apply to everyone else?

It reminded me of a story I came across that perfectly illustrates this idea:

There was a monkey who lived in a forest tree by a river. One day, the monkey saw a fish swimming in the river and thought the fish was struggling. Feeling compassionate, the monkey resolved to save it. It climbed down the tree, scooped the fish out of the water, and placed it gently on a branch. The fish flapped violently and soon died. The monkey was heartbroken and confused—it had only wanted to help.

This story offers such a powerful lesson. The monkey, out of good intentions, misjudged the situation because it viewed the fish’s needs through its own perspective. It assumed that what was natural and necessary for itself—living on land and breathing air—must also apply to the fish. In trying to help, the monkey unknowingly caused harm, simply because it didn’t take the time to truly understand the fish’s environment and needs.

How often do we, with the best intentions, do the same? We may impose our beliefs, values, or ways of living onto others, assuming they must see the world as we do. But the truth is, each of us is shaped by our unique environment, experiences, and perspective. What feels like “truth” for one person may not resonate at all for another.

This story invites us to step back and ask: Am I truly understanding someone else’s experience, or am I projecting my own onto them? Am I listening, or am I assuming?

The beauty of the world lies in its diversity—not just in nature but in thought, belief, and experience. By cultivating empathy and recognizing that we all have our own “water” or “land” to thrive in, we can approach others with a deeper sense of understanding and respect.

Next time you’re tempted to “help” someone or share what you think they need to hear, pause. Consider whether you’re seeing their life through their eyes—or through your own.

Because the truth is, your truth may not be the same truth for another.

Figuring out your truth and what you genuinely want can be a deeply personal and ongoing journey. It’s not uncommon to feel clear about your desires, only to have them shaken when exposed to external influences, especially social media. Here are some steps that might help you ground yourself in your truth:

1. Create Space for Reflection

When life gets busy or overstimulating, it becomes hard to hear your inner voice. Setting aside regular, quiet moments for reflection—whether through journaling, meditation, or even walks in nature—can help you reconnect with your deeper self. In these moments, ask yourself:

• What feels authentic to me?

• What activities, people, or ideas make me feel alive?

• What do I naturally gravitate toward when I’m not comparing myself to others?

2. Listen to Your Body and Emotions

Your body often holds the key to your truth. Pay attention to how you physically and emotionally react to different ideas, situations, or possibilities. When something aligns with your truth, you may feel lighter, energized, or excited. When something is out of alignment, you might feel heavy, tense, or anxious. Trust those signals.

3. Limit External Noise

Social media can easily cloud your perception of yourself, as it constantly exposes you to the lives and opinions of others. You might see what others have or desire, and it can create doubt or envy. Consider setting boundaries with how much time you spend on social media. When you do engage, practice mindful consumption: ask yourself why a certain post affects you and whether it aligns with what you value.

4. Define Your Core Values

Knowing your core values is essential in figuring out your truth. Ask yourself:

• What are the non-negotiables in my life?

• What principles do I live by, regardless of what others are doing?

Once you’ve defined these values, check in with them regularly to see if your desires and goals align with them. This helps you stay true to yourself even when external influences are strong.

5. Embrace the Fluidity of Your Desires

It’s okay for your wants and desires to change over time. Sometimes we fear that changing our minds means we don’t know ourselves, but growth often brings new perspectives. Give yourself permission to evolve, and trust that each phase is part of discovering your deeper truth.

6. Differentiate Between Ego Desires and Soul Desires

Ego desires often come from a place of external validation, comparison, or fear of missing out (FOMO). Soul desires, on the other hand, tend to be quieter but more persistent. They resonate with your deeper purpose and bring a sense of peace or fulfillment. When considering what you want, ask yourself:

• Am I wanting this because it feels true to me, or because it’s what I think I should want?

• Does this desire nourish my spirit, or does it come from seeking approval or fitting in?

7. Trust Yourself

Even though social media and external influences can be overwhelming, your inner compass is still there. Trust that you have the wisdom to discern what feels right for you. When in doubt, return to practices that ground you—yoga, meditation, or connecting with nature—and let that stillness help you reconnect to your truth.

Your journey of finding your truth might be connected to your self-care and yoga practices, allowing you to tune into your inner wisdom beyond the noise. Social media can offer inspiration, but your deepest answers lie within.

Tag: truth

Your Truth May Not Be The Same For Another

Figure Out “YOUR TRUTH”