"Celui qui vit en harmonie avec lui-même vit en harmonie avec l'univers"

Living in harmony with yourself means being at peace with who you are, accepting your strengths and flaws, and understanding your place in the grand scheme of things. When you're truly in sync with yourself, it's like everything around you starts to fall into place. You begin to see how you're connected to the world, how your actions ripple outwards, and how you fit into the bigger picture.

This idea has roots in ancient philosophy. Think about the Stoics, for example. They believed that inner peace was the ultimate goal, and that to achieve it, one must align their actions with their values and nature. Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, often wrote about this in his personal journal. He emphasized understanding the world and our place in it, and how doing so leads to a peaceful, fulfilling life.

Let’s look at a real-life scenario. Imagine a renowned musician, someone like Yo-Yo Ma. He’s known not just for his technical skill, but for the soul and harmony he brings to his music. Yo-Yo Ma describes his relationship with his cello as an extension of himself; he’s in complete harmony with his instrument and his music. This harmony draws listeners in, creating a profound connection between him and his audience. It’s not just about playing the right notes, but about being so in tune with himself that the music flows naturally and beautifully.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by getting to know yourself—your likes, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses. Reflect on what truly matters to you. Are your daily actions aligned with these values? If you value creativity, for example, but spend all your time on monotonous tasks, you’ll feel out of sync. Make conscious choices that reflect your true self. Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay connected with your inner world. When you feel stressed or out of balance, take a step back and reassess. Are you living in a way that’s true to you?

Let me tell you a story. Think of a friend who was always stressed and unhappy—let's call her Jane. She was in a high-paying job that demanded long hours and constant travel. On the surface, she had everything: money, status, a beautiful apartment. But Jane wasn't happy. She missed her family, had little time for her hobbies, and felt disconnected from herself. One day, after a particularly grueling week, she decided enough was enough. Jane quit her job and took some time to figure out what she really wanted. It was a risky move, but she started a small business, something she was passionate about. It wasn’t easy, and she made less money than before, but she was happier. She had time for her family, her hobbies, and most importantly, she felt in harmony with herself. Jane’s peace radiated outwards, improving her relationships and her overall quality of life.

So, next time you feel out of sorts, think about whether you’re living in harmony with yourself. It’s a journey, not a destination. But every step you take towards understanding and aligning with your true self brings you closer to living in harmony with the universe. And that’s a beautiful thing.