Five Essential Methods for Achieving Contentment, as Revealed by a Prosperous Banker who Transformed into a Buddhist Sister
In 1997, British banker Emma Slade encountered a life-altering event when she was robbed at gunpoint in Jakarta. The traumatic incident forced her to the ground and led to the theft of all her belongings. Following this harrowing experience, Slade embarked on a transformative journey that would ultimately redefine her perspective on life forever.
Turning her back on her affluent past, Slade ventured to the Himalayas and embarked on a new path. There, she met a lama - a spiritual guide - and developed a fascination for Buddhism, which sparked a dramatic shift in her life. Leaving her riches behind, she embraced a life centered on spirituality and kindness. Currently, Slade runs a charitable organization called "Opening Your Heart to Bhutan," and has since distanced herself from her banking career.
Some might question why Slade made such a significant change, but her decision can be attributed to her pursuit of happiness. Now, she seeks to share her newfound wisdom with the world and offers insight on the keys to a contented life.
1. Extracting Good from Adverse Situations
Life, at times, may dish out adversity in the form of "lemons." Yet, as Slade learned, one can find a silver lining in every cloud. Her attack in Jakarta served as her spiritual awakening, providing her with the knowledge that something negative had led her to a happier life in the Himalayas. If Slade had not experienced this trauma, she may never have reached that turning point.
2. Cultivating Empathy and Forgiveness
When shown a picture of her robber, Slade expressed empathy rather than hatred towards the man. By learning from her assailant and prioritizing feelings of kindness, compassion, and understanding, Slade managed to find inner peace. She replaced feelings of anger and resentment with positive emotions, ultimately transforming herself into a better person.
3. Making Peace a Top Priority
Finding peace isn't something that will simply come to you. It requires effort and a conscious decision to prioritize inner tranquility. Slade's journey to the Himalayas was both a physical and emotional pilgrimage, during which she discovered the elusive peace she had been seeking.
4. Discovering Ways that Promote Calmness
There are various methods for achieving inner peace, including meditation, mindfulness, connecting with nature, and practicing creativity. Slade suggests that these practices can be the key to maintaining a calm and centered state of mind.
5. Embracing Buddhist Teachings
Buddhism emphasizes practicing kindness, being understanding, and cultivating a positive attitude. By following these principles, Slade has discovered that one can find happiness not just for oneself, but for others as well. Acting kindly and compassionately not only benefits others but also enriches one's own life.
Drawing inspiration from her spiritual growth, Emma Slade advocates for embracing the teachings of Buddhism as a means to cultivate happiness, a key component of her personal-growth journey. Following the traumatic robbery that redirected her lifestyle, she discovered that spirituality fosters inner peace, which she continually nurtures through education-and-self-development practices, such as meditation, mindfulness, and empathy towards others.
