Seeking life’s purpose has nothing to do with money

By Dr T. Selva

For decades, I have embarked on numerous journeys with a singular, unwavering purpose: to seek the essence of life’s meaning and to share my wisdom and discoveries.
These travels have taken me across the globe and deep within myself, revealing that the beauty of life lies in the freedom to explore, grow, and shape our unique paths.
I’ve come to realise that what truly matters is what resonates as meaningful and fulfilling to each individual soul.

Throughout my interfaith explorations—from candlelit cathedrals to Himalayan monasteries and grand temples—I’ve encountered a wide range of beliefs and traditions that offer thoughtful insights into life’s purpose.
Many spiritual and religious teachings point to a higher power or universal truth, whether serving a divine presence, striving for enlightenment, or aligning with a sacred plan.
These perspectives remind me that, while our paths may differ, the intent is a universal thread that binds us all.

As my journey continued, I received heartfelt messages from readers who shared their longing to embark on similar trips but had been unsuccessful.
Several individuals expressed that their financial circumstances were a barrier, hindering them from pursuing their spiritual aspirations.
It’s easy to assume that spiritual journeys—pilgrimages, retreats, or even moments of deep reflection—require significant financial means because we are influenced to believe that money is a prerequisite for this experience.

One reader wrote, “I’ll visit that holy place when I have enough money,” while another shared, “I’ll focus on my spiritual growth once I’m more financially stable—or maybe after I retire.”

These sentiments are understandable but reveal a common misconception: the belief that spirituality is tied to affluence or external resources.
In reality, the divine path has little to do with money and everything to do with the sincerity of your seeking.

It’s not about where you go or what you spend—it’s about the intention behind your journey and the depth of your inner search.

Blissful moments can be found in the quiet of your own home, in the stillness of nature, or even amidst your daily routine. The pilgrimage begins within.
The godly not only resides in ancient, heavenly sites or faraway lands alone; it is present in every moment, breath, and every corner of our lives.
When you genuinely yearn for connection with the celestial, the universe responds in ways that transcend material limitations.

It opens doors, illuminates routes, and guides you toward the wisdom and satisfaction you seek—often in unexpected ways.

The teachings of the Buddha, as narrated by the Dalai Lama, significantly influenced my self-discovery journey.

What struck me most was how this wisdom transcended religion—it wasn’t about rituals but the way and purpose of life.

It offered clarity and calm during times of questioning. One powerful quote by the Dalai Lama has stayed with me and continues to guide me: “The ultimate source of happiness is not money and power, but warmth of heart. If we want a happier and more meaningful life, we should pay more attention to our inner values.”

This philosophical yet straightforward truth helped me shift my focus inward to values, compassion, and satisfaction, which are the actual markers of a fulfilled life.
Money can buy a plane ticket to a spiritual site or fund a retreat, but it cannot purchase the inner transformation that comes from honest and pious seeking.
The divine is not concerned with your bank account but with the genuineness of your heart.
Remember, when we spend money on a pilgrimage or for a holy purpose, we must shift our perspective: This is not an expense but a spiritual investment, and the return is unimaginable abundance.

Unlike material purchases, where returns are often immediate and tangible, the rewards of a religious journey are intangible, overwhelming, and multifaceted.
What you gain—inner peace, clarity, connection, and a deeper understanding of yourself and the universe—transcends monetary value.
This asset enriches not just your own life but also the lives of those around you.
The richness you receive may manifest as renewed purpose, heightened compassion, or a sense of unity with something greater than yourself.
These indefinable returns have the power to transform your outlook, your relationships, and your very way of being in the world.

The path is not always easy—I’ve faced my share of challenges and obstacles along the way. But through these experiences, I’ve learned to see them not as hurdles but as opportunities for growth.

Each hitch, each moment of difficulty, has been a chance to dig deeper, to grow stronger, and to uncover layers of myself I might never have discovered otherwise.
I’ve come to believe that God works through these trials, using them to strip away distractions, refine my intentions, and guide me closer to my true self.
What once seemed like setbacks often became the stepping stones to greater clarity, purpose, and alignment with what truly matters.

So, when you dedicate resources to a spiritual journey, remember that you are sowing seeds for a harvest that goes beyond the material.
You are empowering in the unseen, the eternal, and the infinite—and the dividends are immeasurable.

Award-winning author Dr T. Selva is a speaker and the author of the bestseller Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To purchase a copy of the book, WhatsApp Devi at 0412623017. You can also contact Dr Selva at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra.