Purpose Archives - Minds Valley

Our Purpose in this World and the Next

mindsvalley99 — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 14:58:15 +0000

Why are we here? What’s our purpose? What is it that we’re supposed to do in this life? Have you ever asked yourself these perplexing questions? You’re not alone –…

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Being Trained: Human Experience and the Purpose of Suffering

mindsvalley99 — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:40:28 +0000

I don’t know when I became curious about the purpose of suffering.

Most likely a slow process eased its way into my awareness as I aged, and I started to question why my challenges created such discord within me. Although numerous resources can help explain such things, the one that first caught my attention came from The Hidden Words by Baha’u’llah:

Out of the wastes of nothingness, with the clay of My command I made thee to appear, and have ordained for thy training every atom in existence and the essence of all created things… – The Hidden Words, p. 32.

The word “training” has many levels of implication:

To teach a particular job or activity
To prepare yourself/somebody for a particular activity
To develop a natural ability or quality so that it improves
To make a plant grow in a particular direction

To be taught, prepared, developed and shown how to grow with “every atom in existence and the essence of all created things” is a concept that I find completely and utterly fascinating.

The quote does not say training comes from only “good” atoms and essences. Nor does it exclude the atoms I am composed of, and the essence of who I am. This all boils down to me becoming conscious of the fact that I am an integral part of what exists–as is every other human being, and the rest of creation, too.

From this perspective, I see training as the limitless exchanges an individual has internally and externally; between themselves and someone or something else; both tangible and intangible. All of these exchanges exist on a spectrum from the onerous and downright horrendous to the excellent and wonderful, each varying in level of intensity and complexity from low to high, as well as in length of time from nanoseconds to years.

Because each of us knows our own self far better than anyone else can, how we experience every aspect of our training can only be determined by the person experiencing them. There are billions of people on this planet, and what proves difficult for one person to cope with may not be difficult for someone else:

…on this dusty earth all humankind are suffering… And if a human life, with its spiritual being, were limited to this earthly span, then what would be the harvest of creation? Indeed, what would be the effects and the outcomes of Divinity Itself? Were such a notion true, then all created things, all contingent realities, and this whole world of being — all would be meaningless. God forbid that one should hold to such a fiction and gross error. – Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 184.

When something makes you suffer, creates unhappiness or causes internal struggle, it is empowering to believe that:

God hath never burdened any soul beyond its power. – Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 106.

Because I believe that reassuring truth, my perspective has changed from one of bemoaning trials, tribulations, tests and suffering to an increasing acceptance of them–because “every atom in existence and the essence of all created things “ are for our training.

I now try to see my suffering and troubles as a means for cultivation of self, the fine-tuning of character and virtues. In the same way, I hope that our collective suffering has meaning, and will eventually lead humanity to the point that our training will no longer involve war, hunger, poverty and other such man-made difficulties:

God alone ordereth all things and is all-powerful. Why then does He send trials to His servants?

The trials of man are of two kinds. (a) The consequences of his own actions. If a man eats too much, he ruins his digestion; if he takes poison he becomes ill or dies. If a person gambles he will lose his money; if he drinks too much he will lose his equilibrium. All these sufferings are caused by the man himself, it is quite clear therefore that certain sorrows are the result of our own deeds. (b) Other sufferings there are, which come upon the Faithful of God. Consider the great sorrows endured by Christ and by His apostles!

Those who suffer most, attain to the greatest perfection… Men who suffer not, attain no perfection. The plant most pruned by the gardeners is that one which, when the summer comes, will have the most beautiful blossoms and the most abundant fruit.

The laborer cuts up the earth with his plough, and from that earth comes the rich and plentiful harvest. The more a man is chastened, the greater is the harvest of spiritual virtues shown forth by him. – Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 49.

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What Is the Purpose of Our Lives?

mindsvalley99 — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 13:42:36 +0000

When a baby is born into this world, she “dies” with respect to the warm comfortable mother’s womb where she has happily lived for nine months.

She leaves that life forever as she enters this life – with no idea that this life even exists. This life, then, represents the afterlife of the mother’s womb.

The sole purpose of the baby being in the mother’s womb is to grow all the organs and limbs she will need in order to function in this life.

Taking this analogy a step further, this life is the womb for the next life.

With all the issues we deal with every day – our health, relationships, careers, finances, possessions, hobbies, you name it – the sole purpose of our being in this womb we call Earth is to develop our souls for the next life, the life of the spirit. Everything else in our lives ends with our deaths. Only our souls go on to the next plane of existence.

So how do we develop our souls for that next life? The Baha’i teachings have answers to that critical question.

First, those teachings recommend that we recognize the message of God for the age we live in; and second, we then “observe every ordinance” that message contains:

The first duty prescribed by God for His servants is the recognition of Him Who is the Dayspring of His Revelation and the Fountain of His laws, Who representeth the Godhead in both the Kingdom of His Cause and the world of creation. … It behoveth every one who reacheth this most sublime station, this summit of transcendent glory, to observe every ordinance of Him Who is the Desire of the world. These twin duties are inseparable. Neither is acceptable without the other. Thus hath it been decreed by Him Who is the Source of Divine inspiration.

Baha’is believe God has revealed His will periodically throughout history through His messengers, the founders of the major world religions – Abraham, Krishna, Moses, Zoroaster, Buddha, Christ, Muhammad, and for this new day in human history, Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith.

Recognizing the divine authority of a messenger of God requires that we conduct our own independent investigation of truth, willing to let go of all prejudices, superstitions, and beliefs that prevent us from objectively evaluating and accepting that new message. Only when we very humbly open our minds and hearts to the possibility of someone being a messenger of God can we accept his teachings as the Word of God, and understand God’s will.

Also, as the second part of Baha’u’llah’s injunction asks, we must be willing to follow the principles, teachings, and laws revealed by God’s messenger. These “twin duties,” the Baha’i teachings assure us, will help us become more spiritual beings.

Here are just a few ways we can do this:

1. Develop a close relationship with God by praying; loving and praising Him; continually thanking Him for the countless blessings He has bestowed upon us throughout our lives; having faith and trusting in His grace that He is always there for us, loving us and protecting us, at all times and under all conditions.

2. Acquire God-like attributes and strive to make our daily behavior reflect these attributes – such as love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, justice, patience, trustworthiness, integrity, courtesy, the Golden Rule, etc.

3. Be of service to others. The more we serve other people, the more selfless we become. Moreover, Baha’u’llah said that work performed in the spirit of service is worship.

4. Stay focused on our spiritual nature: our reality is our soul, not our body.

5. Strive to be in unity and harmony with all people, regardless of who they are and what they believe.

6. In this new day, Baha’u’llah taught that all human beings must fully embrace the indisputable fact that humankind is one family. There is only one race – the human race. We are all one beautiful human flower garden. We need to accept and appreciate our diversity, not condemn and destroy it.

As a corollary to this, we must do everything in our power to totally eliminate all our prejudices – racial, religious, gender, cultural, political, national, economic, educational, tribal, etc. Not only does this greatly benefit our souls; it also brings about desperately needed unity and harmony.

All of this requires commitment. Our daily words and actions, based on total unconditional commitment to become deeply spiritual, are the true reflection of who we are as human beings.

Because we’re human, though, we’ll always fall short of these high ideals. But we must keep trying, no matter how difficult or painful. God knows our hearts. He knows how sincere we are in our daily efforts to become the noble spiritual human beings we were created to be.

We must constantly give ourselves love, kindness, gentleness, and forgiveness, and we must appreciate who we are. These two powerful quotations from the writings of Baha’u’llah elaborate further on these exalted themes:

… The nature of the soul after death can never be described, nor is it meet and permissible to reveal its whole character to the eyes of men. The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole purpose of guiding mankind to the straight Path of Truth. The purpose underlying their revelation hath been to educate all men, that they may, at the hour of death, ascend, in the utmost purity and sanctity and with absolute detachment, to the throne of the Most High … – Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah

… man can never hope to attain unto the knowledge of the All-Glorious, can never quaff from the stream of divine knowledge and wisdom … unless and until he ceases to regard the words and deeds of mortal men as a standard for the true understanding and recognition of God and His Prophets. – The Book of Certitude

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TELUS Mental Health Index reveals two-in-five workers in the US do not know the purpose of an Employee Assistance Program

mindsvalley99 — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 07:27:22 +0000

CHICAGO, Sept. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TELUS Health today released its monthly TELUS Mental Health Index, revealing that two-in-five workers in the US are unfamiliar with the purpose of an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – also known as an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) – and what it offers. The Index also found that despite no cost to workers, 24 percent of those surveyed cite cost as a major barrier in using EAPs. Workers who reported being familiar with an EAP and what it offers had a higher mental health score than those who did not.

“Employee Assistance Programs provide a wealth of mental health resources and support for employees and their families, but the fact that 38 percent of workers don’t understand the purpose of these programs creates a significant gap in utilization,” said Juggy Sihota, Chief Growth Officer, TELUS Health. “While EAPs have existed for a long time, we also cannot assume employees understand how to access or use them. Companies can demonstrate stronger support for their employees’ wellbeing by offering a steady stream of education and information about EAPs to address this gap, to help drive utilization and to increase productivity.”

Underutilization of EAPs directly linked to lack of awareness among employees.

One third (33 percent) of workers are familiar with EAPs, while 29 percent have heard of them, but don’t know what they offer.
Workers who know what an EAP is and what it offers have a mental health score four points higher (73.7) than workers who are not familiar with EAPs (69.7).
Among workers who would not use or are uncertain if they would use an EAP, 34 percent do not know what it covers, 21 percent are concerned about confidentiality, and 20 percent do not know how to access the service.
Workers who said they were concerned about cost have a mental health score of 62.9.

There is a significant disparity between workers’ perceptions of their access to benefits and the reality of the situation. Despite 62 percent of workers stating that they do not have access to an EAP, a survey conducted in 2023 by the International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans revealed that 81 percent of US employers were offering an EAP.

Perceived affordability barrier impacting workers’ access to support.

The mental health scores of workers reporting affordability as a barrier to accessing mental health support is 24 points lower than workers reporting no barriers and 13 points below the national average.
Workers under 40 are two times more likely than workers over 50 to have reported affordability as a barrier to accessing mental health support.
Workers earning under $100,000 per year are 70 percent more likely to not use an EAP due to cost concerns than those earning over $100,000 per year.

“When people become aware of the opportunity to access free, confidential counselling through an Employee Assistance Program, they are often thrilled. They also deeply appreciate the support their organization provides for this service,” said Paula Allen, Global Leader, Research & Client Insights, TELUS Health. “Many are not aware that the offerings in an EAP extend far beyond counseling to include resources like financial, legal and family support, as well as round-the-clock crisis support available throughout the year. While an EAP serves as a fundamental resource, we’ve gone the extra mile by introducing Total Mental Health – a solution that offers everything in an EAP plus care navigation and sustained guided support on a long-term basis. With an EAP and Total Mental Health, the support available to employees is better than it ever has been, but the challenge of widespread awareness remains.”

The TELUS Mental Health Index score of US workers in August is 71.1, a one-point increase over July.

The August TELUS Mental Health Index also includes findings related to employees who are caregivers, and insights into workplace vacation policies. Read the full US TELUS Mental Health Index report findings here.

About the TELUS Mental Health Index
The survey by TELUS Health was conducted through an online survey from August 4 and August 18, 2023, with 5,000 US respondents. All respondents were employed within the last six months. The data has been statistically weighted to ensure the regional and gender composition of the sample reflects this population.

The TELUS Mental Health Index is based on a response scoring system that then turns individual responses into point values. Higher point values are associated with better mental health and less mental health risk. Scores between 0 to 49 correspond with distress levels, scores between 50 to 79 correspond with strain levels and scores between 80 to 100 correspond with optimal levels of mental health.

About TELUS Health

TELUS Health is a global healthcare leader serving people in more than 160 countries delivering both digital innovation and clinical services to improve total physical, mental and financial health and wellness across the full spectrum of primary and preventive care. By leveraging the power of technology to deliver connected solutions and services both in-person and virtually, TELUS Health is improving access to care and revolutionizing the flow of information while facilitating collaboration, efficiency, and productivity for physicians, pharmacists, health authorities, allied healthcare professionals, insurers, employers and people globally, progressing its vision of transforming healthcare and empowering people to live healthier lives.

Our clinical team is composed of renowned and passionate health professionals around the world delivering best-in-class people-centric care to hundreds of thousands of employers, professionals and their families.

For more information, please visit: www.telushealth.com.

Media contact:
Marielle Hossack

TELUS Media Relations
marielle.hossack@telus.com

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Balancing Profit and Purpose in Burn Injury Legal Cases

mindsvalley99 — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 22:46:37 +0000

Getting caught in a burn injury situation can turn your life upside down. The excruciating pain, the daunting recovery process, and the emotional toll it takes on you and your loved ones can be overwhelming. This is where a burn injury lawyer steps in – not just a legal expert but a beacon of hope during these tough times.

The Fire That Ignites Legal Action

Imagine you’re at a local restaurant, enjoying a nice meal with your family. Suddenly, a faulty electrical wire sparks a fire, and chaos ensues. Amid the panic, you suffer from severe burn injuries. You need medical attention and answers about who’s responsible for this ordeal. This is when a burn injury lawyer becomes your ally.

Unpacking the Role

Burn injury lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in cases involving burn injuries. These attorneys understand the intricacies of burn cases, ranging from workplace accidents and defective products to car accidents and property negligence. Their role goes beyond just the courtroom drama; they are the ones who passionately fight for your rights, making sure that justice is served.

Navigating the Legal Maze

The legal process can be as intricate as a spider’s web, but a skilled burn injury lawyer can navigate it. From gathering evidence and consulting experts to negotiating with insurance companies – they wear multiple hats to build a strong case. Their aim is to win you monetary compensation and ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.

Burn Injury Lawyers: A Ray of Hope

A burn injury is more than just physical pain; it also brings emotional and financial hardships. Medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs can pile up, adding to your distress. A compassionate burn injury lawyer understands this and strives to alleviate your burdens. They work tirelessly to secure a settlement that covers your immediate expenses and your long-term well-being.

The Human Touch

It’s not just about the legal jargon and courtroom battles. Burn injury lawyers bring a human touch to their profession. They listen to your story, empathize with your pain, and ensure you feel supported every step of the way. This personalized approach creates a bond beyond attorney-client interactions – they become your confidant in a trying time.

Steps to Take After a Burn Injury

Experiencing a burn injury can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps can make a significant difference. Here’s a brief guide to help you after a burn injury:

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is a top priority. Seek medical care immediately to assess the extent of your injuries and start the treatment process.

Document the Scene

If circumstances permit, gather evidence from the scene. Photographs, witness information, and relevant details can be valuable for your case.

Report the Incident

Depending on where the incident occurred, report it to the relevant authorities. This documentation can provide additional support for your case.

Consult a Burn Injury Lawyer

Consult a burn injury lawyer once your immediate medical needs are taken care of. They can guide you on the legal aspects and help you understand your options.

Preserve Evidence

Keep all medical records, bills, and other relevant documents organized. This will be crucial when building your case for compensation.

Stay Cautious with Insurance

Insurance companies might try to settle for less than you deserve. Consult your lawyer before engaging in any discussions with them.

Prioritize Your Recovery

While your lawyer handles the legal matters, focus on your recovery. Attend medical appointments, follow treatment plans, and take care of your well-being.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. A burn injury lawyer will be your advocate, fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

In the realm of burn injury cases, it’s not just about the legal battles. It’s about bringing back a sense of normalcy to the lives of those who have suffered. Burn injury lawyers understand the profound impact of burn injuries and are committed to balancing profit and purpose. So, if life throws you into the fire, remember that legal professionals are ready to fight for your rights and help you rise from the ashes.

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The Journey to Self-Discovery: How Writing a Self-Help Book on Gratitude Can Help You Find Your Purpose.

mindsvalley99 — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:04:47 +0000

The journey to self-discovery can be a long and challenging one. Many people spend years trying to figure out their purpose in life, struggling to find meaning and direction. However, one powerful tool that can help you on this journey is writing a self-help book on gratitude.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can transform your life. When you focus on the things that you are grateful for, you shift your perspective and start to see the world in a more positive light. This can help you to overcome challenges, find joy in everyday life and discover your true purpose.

Writing a self-help book on gratitude can be a transformative experience. It allows you to explore your own experiences with gratitude and share them with others. As you write, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your own journey to self-discovery. You will also be able to help others who may be struggling with the same issues.

The process of writing a self-help book on gratitude can also help you to develop your own gratitude practice. As you explore the topic in depth, you will become more mindful of the things that you are grateful for in your own life. This can help you to cultivate a more positive and grateful mindset, which is essential for finding your purpose.

When you write a self-help book on gratitude, you also have the opportunity to connect with others who are on a similar journey. You can share your experiences and insights with readers, and they can share their own stories with you. This can create a sense of community and support, which can be invaluable on the journey to self-discovery.

Ultimately, writing a self-help book on gratitude can help you to find your purpose in life. By focusing on the positive aspects of your life and cultivating a grateful mindset, you will be able to see your path more clearly and make choices that align with your values and goals. You will also be able to help others who are struggling with similar issues, which can be a deeply rewarding experience.

In conclusion, if you are on a journey of self-discovery, consider writing a self-help book on gratitude. It can be a powerful tool for exploring your own experiences and helping others who may be struggling with the same issues. It can also help you to cultivate a more positive mindset, which is essential for finding your purpose in life. So, start writing today and see where your journey takes you!

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Finding Purpose and Meaning: The Key to Overcoming Depression

mindsvalley99 — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 08:26:00 +0000

Depression can be a debilitating illness that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause a range of symptoms, including sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and low energy levels. While there are many treatments available for depression, such as medication and therapy, one of the most effective ways to overcome depression is by finding purpose and meaning in life.

Purpose and meaning are closely related concepts that can provide individuals with a sense of direction and motivation. Purpose refers to the specific goals or objectives that individuals strive to achieve, while meaning refers to the broader sense of fulfillment and significance that individuals derive from their lives. Both are essential for mental health and wellbeing, and can be powerful tools in overcoming depression.

One of the first steps in finding purpose and meaning is to identify one’s values and priorities. This involves reflecting on what is most important in life, such as relationships, career, personal growth, or spirituality. By clarifying these values, individuals can make decisions that align with their priorities and bring them closer to their goals.

Another important aspect of finding purpose and meaning is to engage in activities that are personally meaningful and fulfilling. This can include hobbies, volunteering, or pursuing a career that aligns with one’s values and interests. By doing things that bring joy and satisfaction, individuals can boost their self-esteem and sense of purpose.

In addition to these individual efforts, finding purpose and meaning can also involve connecting with others and contributing to something larger than oneself. This can include joining a community group, volunteering for a social cause, or participating in a religious or spiritual community. By engaging with others and working towards a common goal, individuals can develop a sense of belonging and purpose.

It’s important to note that finding purpose and meaning is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing process. As individuals grow and change, their priorities and goals may shift, and it’s important to regularly reevaluate and adjust one’s sense of purpose and meaning.

In conclusion, finding purpose and meaning can be a powerful tool in overcoming depression. By identifying one’s values and priorities, engaging in fulfilling activities, and connecting with others, individuals can develop a sense of direction and motivation that can help them overcome the challenges of depression. While it may take time and effort to find purpose and meaning, the rewards are well worth it in terms of mental health and wellbeing.

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