“The spirit in me sees the spirit in you.”

We are all pieces of the collective puzzle. Branches on the tree of life. Waves within the sea of consciousness. Notes in the universal song.

Choose whichever analogy hits home, but consider its true meaning: I am you and you are me, and together we are all varying expressions of the same whole Thing.

Namaste means acknowledging your neighbor as the whole puzzle, the whole tree, the entire ocean, the full song.

Namaste means seeing through your neighbor’s persona (mask) and into the soul.

We are all playing dress up in our dope lil Earth suits.

Maybe namaste explains our innate need for connection. Maybe it explains why it always feels better to give than to receive. Maybe its why love is always the right answer.

When you begin walking around seeing everyone as God in disguise, your perspective shifts. All of the sudden you find yourself becoming more understanding and empathetic. You become less agitated and annoyed at behaviors you would normally consider undesirable.

Maybe we are all at different stages of the same path, playing the unique hand we’ve been dealt to the best of our ability. Maybe its why we all long for the same essential experiences. A longing to be heard, to be understood, to be loved, and to enjoy our dance on this beautiful, strange stone called Earth.

Consider trying this magic word on, see if it fits. You don’t even have to wear it out loud. Simply say it in your mind the next time you acknowledge your neighbor walking down the street.

See if it moves you in the direction of compassion for one another.

Namaste,