Stop surviving, start serving

We have often heard the phrase “survival of the fittest” as a guiding principle of life. It suggests that those who are strong, successful, and capable of accumulating more are the ones who thrive. This belief has led us to compare ourselves to primitive times, assuming that survival is our primary goal. from the outside

To survive, we accumulate wealth, power, and resources — sometimes even by taking from others. This competition for dominance stems from an animalistic mindset, not a human one. However, human history is not about survival at all. It is about giving. We are not here merely to exist but to serve and contribute.

ARE YOU JUST SURVIVING?

In the race of life, are you truly living or just surviving? When asked, “How are you?” many people respond with “I am surviving” or “I’m alive.” This reflects a lack of enthusiasm, joy, and energy. The constant struggle to accumulate more has shifted our focus from higher consciousness to mere existence.

We not only seek material accomplishments but also demand emotional fulfilment — love, respect, appreciation, kindness, understanding, etc - from the outside. When these are not received, we feel drained and stuck in survival mode.

It is time to pause and reflect: Why do we feel this way? Where has our energy gone? How do we replenish it? Living in survival mode is exhausting as we constantly chase success, believing that accumulation equals happiness. But continually taking is not our natural state. We are not here just to survive.

HOW TO SERVE?

When we move away from our natural state of giving, we feel drained. Our true essence lies in sharing and serving. The more we give, the more fulfilled we become. But before we can serve, we must first fill ourselves. Our treasure store should be filled with positivity, love, and inner strength.

When we serve without an intention to get anything in return, fear, selfishness, and competition disappear. Our natural qualities — kindness, compassion, and generosity — begin to shine. Serving in a true sense can only come from an overflowing heart, not from an unfulfilled heart desiring appreciation, respect, or recognition. If we serve with expectations to receive something in return, we remain unfulfilled. True service is when we give out of our abundance within as we are already full in ourselves.

Survival keeps us stagnant, but serving helps us grow. Like a river that nourishes everything in its path, the energy we give will nurture everyone it touches, including the self. The highest form of service is one that flows naturally, without conditions. Let us embrace our true nature — fill ourselves with love and let it flow freely. Love all, serve all.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.