Imagine a tiny boat that you get into and start your journey across the ocean to unknown lands. Your spiritual path is similar to that, exciting yet scary. But don’t be ashamed of fear. It’s natural for anyone, even the smallest insect, to react with fear to protect itself. Humans, too, feel fear when confronting the unknown.

Running away from our feelings is a losing strategy here. Only if we embrace what we are feeling does life become vivid and clear. This full presence in the unknown creates a feeling of groundlessness, where nothing feels solid or certain.

Take a man who wanted to get rid of his negative feelings, especially fear. He got advice to stop fighting his emotions. But it wasn’t until his solo retreat that he understood what that advice actually meant. Deep night, fear crawling under his skin, and a huge snake nearby waiting to attack him. Was it real, or was it just his frightened mind playing a joke on him?

When morning came, he started to cry. He wasn’t sad, but he felt a deep kindness and connection to the shared struggles of all living beings. He, as well as other creatures, was imperfect and at the same time valuable. Once he came to terms with his fear, every other problem seemed less grand, and the man was ready to truly see and connect with the world.

If you are also avoiding fear, you miss out on fully living in the present moment. Consider fear your wise teacher who shows you valuable lessons during life’s challenges. Don’t hide in these moments, keep exploring, and don’t give up, especially when life takes unexpected turns.

When everything seems to fall apart, emptiness, mindfulness, and fear remind us of the true nature of life. Accept this groundlessness and make it the essential first step on the journey. Remember, you should let go of the hope for a safer, better place outside yourself and embrace the unknown as it is.