My journey has been one of profound transformation, a shift from a state of existential hopelessness to one of deep inner peace and purpose. It began in a Europe gripped by the fear of nuclear annihilation, a time when the very meaning of life seemed shrouded in uncertainty. This pervasive sense of dread led me to seek answers, a search that ultimately led me to the profound wisdom of Raj Yoga meditation.

The Seeds of Hopelessness

The fear of imminent destruction cast a long shadow over my youth. The constant threat of nuclear war created an atmosphere of anxiety and despair. I questioned the point of striving for a happy life, knowing it could be extinguished in an instant. This hopelessness fueled a desire to escape, to find a place where peace and tranquility might still exist. My initial plan was to settle in New Zealand, a place I imagined to be untouched by the turmoil of the world.

A Turning Point: Encountering Raj Yoga

However, my path took an unexpected turn when I encountered the knowledge of Raj Yoga meditation. This transformative wisdom completely shifted my perspective. The hopelessness that had plagued me for so long began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of inner peace and purpose. This change was so dramatic that it even impacted my family.

My mother, who had struggled with depression for years, experienced a remarkable transformation after learning meditation. Witnessing her healing was a profound affirmation of the power of this practice. It was a testament to the idea that self-transformation can ripple outwards, impacting those around us.

Serving Others: From Psychiatry to Peace

My professional life as a psychiatric nurse provided a unique context for applying the principles of meditation. Working with individuals struggling with depression and mental health challenges reinforced the importance of inner peace. People would comment on my peaceful demeanor in the mediation center, and doubt I could maintain that in acute psychiatry. But I was able to.

The realization that inner peace is our inherent nature led me to embark on a unique project: the "Peace Bus Project." I traveled to the Balkan countries, a region scarred by conflict, to share the experience of peace. The project aimed to demonstrate that peace is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible experience that resides within each of us.

The Power of Experience

One of the most profound lessons I learned was the importance of experience over intellectual understanding. Many people attempt to achieve peace by fighting against war, but this approach inadvertently focuses their energy on the very thing they wish to eliminate. True peace comes from cultivating it within ourselves, from directing our attention and energy towards it.

I have also witnessed numerous experiences that defy rational explanation, moments that can only be described as miraculous. One such instance involved a journey with faulty car brakes. Despite traveling thousands of kilometers, I encountered no dangerous situations. It was as if divine intervention guided us safely to our destination. Immediately after the journey, the brakes completely failed upon inspection, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the experience.

Learning from Opposites

My time working alongside a brother with a vastly different personality was another significant learning experience. Initially, we seemed like polar opposites, with contrasting backgrounds and perspectives. However, through our shared service, we underwent a profound karmic transformation, ultimately forging a deep friendship.

This experience taught me the importance of embracing differences and recognizing the potential for growth in every interaction. It also highlighted the power of divine orchestration, guiding us towards unexpected paths of learning and transformation.

The Fragility of Life and the Importance of Connection

The passing of my friend, shortly after we had formed a deep bond, served as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. It underscored the importance of cherishing relationships and living each moment with purpose.

A Call to Authenticity and Inner Peace

My journey has been a testament to the power of authenticity and the transformative potential of inner peace. By embracing our true selves and cultivating a connection to our inner being, we can navigate the challenges of life with greater clarity and purpose.

I encourage everyone to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, to explore the depths of their inner being and cultivate the peace that resides within. By doing so, we can contribute to a world where peace and harmony prevail.

In conclusion, my life has been an unfolding of unexpected events and profound learnings. From a place of deep fear and hopelessness, I found a path to peace and purpose through Raj Yoga meditation. This transformation then lead to a life of service, sharing the experience of peace with others. I learned that true peace is not something to be fought for, but something to be cultivated within. And I learned that even with the most opposite of people, deep bonds can be formed, and lessons can be learned. Finally, I learned the importance of living authentically, and that peace is everyone’s true nature.

Reiner Barth
National Coordinator Brahma Kumaris Austria