There is one magical thing that I remain constantly aware of when I think of the individual human: when I greet someone, listen to their words, read their books, or simply watch a stranger, a passerby, go about their business, I see that conscious soul as a walking mosaic of the universe, a child in the schooling of consciousness. Each individual’s mindset is shaped by the complexity of being alive. We are all products of our own experiences, and not one of those formulas—of time, spirit, events, and emotions—is the same. We are all unique, and that is something truly special.

We are born into the duality of right and wrong, and with that, we are all dealt our hand in life. Let us call this a mighty vast spectrum of living standards, ranging from a castle of silver spoons to a family wholesomely sharing a toothpick.

A very good friend of mine presented me with a wonderful metaphor that I have not been able to stop thinking about for quite some time. I asked him why the universe would create such hardship for some people while granting paradise to others. It seemed inconsistent and somewhat unjust, a thought that tormented me for a large part of my life. Here are his words that helped settle my soul just enough to gain a broader understanding of life:

“The universe is one big jigsaw puzzle, and each of us is a piece of that puzzle. We need to be here to complete the image, to complete the story, wherever it is going. We are living the experience of all that is possible for greater purposes, whether we believe it or not. We experience, we learn, we mature, and we gift the cosmos our intimate knowledge.”

I have since come to understand that existence is about growth through the experience of life. We see it in plants, animals, human creation, and truly everything else imaginable. The universe is experiencing everything it possibly can so it can blossom into the most majestic and wonderful form conceivable. That is what the universe desires, and I believe this will be its ultimate gift.

This idea is certainly open to interpretation, and one can only arrive at such a conclusion through their own experiences, and compassion. I suppose it is a question that can only be answered subjectively. However, I do believe it is a reality that only faith can reconcile.

We are here to share our own story, our own experiences. Tell us how Jordan Peterson has guided you from the depths of emotional struggle onto the path of happiness, love, greatness, fitness, kindness, knowledge—whatever your journey may be. Share your experiences so this remarkable man understands the profound and vital impact he is making on the world around him.