On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, I find myself reflecting on what led to his transformation.
The saying goes that Buddha’s transformation began when he saw an old person, a sick person, and a dead body—realities that shook him out of comfort and into seeking something deeper.
I’ve also read accounts of people who, after a near-death experience, completely changed their lives and devoted themselves to service. As if these experiences shook them, showed them the 'truth', and set them firmly on a path.
For me, it’s different. Intellectually, I understand what is right. I have a sense of the path I should take. But living it is another matter—it requires effort, discipline, and constant returning. Sometimes there’s a quiet force that carries me forward, and things feel aligned. But more often, it’s a daily practice of choosing, recommitting, and trying not to drift.
It makes me wonder: what truly keeps a person on the path? Is it a moment of awakening, a sustained discipline, grace… or something else entirely?