We’ve all asked ourselves why me? The best place to find the answer is in nature. If you are really struggling with a why me issue, take some time for yourself in the mountains. Get out into the crisp air to clear your head. Then, do the following experiment.

Sitting comfortably, give in to the experience of the moment. Relax. Allow your senses to take over, noticing what you see, hear, feel and smell.

Look deeply into the shades of color and the visual textures the forest has to offer, the awesome variety and quality of sensory experience.

Notice the buzz of nature, the animal sounds and panorama of new auditory input. You don’t hear the buzz of nature in the city. Tune in…

And feel the temperature of the air, the warmth of the sun on your neck and weight of your body on the earth as she pulls you steadily toward her.

If you really do the above, you are in touch with nature! This alone is a rare feat. Gone are your worries of the day. Nature is with you.  You are out of your head and into the external present. What more could you want?

Ah yes. The answer! Why me?

As you tune in deeply to nature, you will sense the answer. Some even experience it as a quiet revelation, the whisper of a still, small voice. The voice gently asks a question in return. Why not me?

Why not me?

Yes, why not me? Who am I to desire immunity from the trials and tragedies that humans have suffered for millennia? What makes me different that every other living person, and everyone who has ever lived on this earth?

Nature understands that while each of us is unique, we are not above suffering. Immersed in the One Human Mind, the external present, we understand that tragedy and triumph are common experiences. And no one is immune to life’s angst. In fact, from the present moment, we understand that it cannot be any other way. To desire so is arrogance. Even in the face of our own death we cannot ask for ultimate deliverance or escape inevitable demise.

Is asking why not me a call for discouragement? No, holding on to why me is the only way to remain discouraged. Accepting your vulnerability to tragedy and capacity for triumph set you free to live life on Life’s terms, which releases your ultimate capacity for personal freedom. This is not something that can be taught or understood through conventional education. It can only be experienced through OHM practice. Resolving why me once and for all represents another of life’s shackles loosened.