The Art of Living Fully: Lessons from a Modern Zen Master
A Chance Encounter That Changed Everything
Have you ever met someone and instantly felt they would leave an indelible mark on your life? Over a decade ago, while volunteering at an event, I met a man who radiated a presence so profound it was almost tangible. For the sake of this story, let’s call him Brian. Decades my senior, he welcomed me like a brother from the moment we shook hands and he pulled me in for a hug. He was there supporting his wife, a renowned author, but it was his energy that drew me in—a quiet, unshakable calm that felt like a Western echo of Paramahansa Yogananda, the sage who brought yoga and Eastern philosophy to America. (Yes, the same Yogananda whose Autobiography of a Yogi was the only book on Steve Jobs’ iPad when he passed.)
I attended his wife’s workshop, not just for her wisdom, but because I wanted to soak up more of Brian’s presence. His vibe was hard to pin down—zen-like, grounded, yet vibrant with purpose. Over the years, our conversations, often over long skype calls, have been like seeds planted in my mind. Each one leaves me with a single, potent concept to ponder. That, I’ve learned, is the mark of a true master: they don’t overwhelm you with everything they know; they give you one idea to chew on, letting it reshape you over time.
A Life Reimagined: Brian’s Story
Today, Brian shared parts of his story I’d only heard in fragments before. He opened up about a moment that redefined his existence: he died. Yes, literally. At the same age I am now, he came back from that experience and made a choice that would stun most of us. At the height of a wildly successful career in real estate—flying across the country in private jets in the 1980s, no less—he walked away. Not because he failed, but because he heard a deeper calling.
Eighteen months later, he met his wife, the love of his life. He poured his energy into building a foundation and supporting her work, trading the high-flying world of wealth for a life of purpose and love. This wasn’t just a career pivot; it was a radical reimagining of what it means to live fully. Brian’s story has always left me in awe. Could I do that? Could I walk away from ambition at its peak to embrace something simpler, more meaningful? I fantasize about a quiet life, a family, a purpose-driven existence. But if I’m honest, I wonder if I’d last two minutes before boredom crept in. Or maybe, just maybe, I’d find something richer than I could imagine. I haven’t lived it yet, so who’s to say?
The Power of Purpose
What I do know is that I feel a fire inside me—a calling to impact lives. I want to use my experiences, the heartaches and traumas I’ve navigated, to help others avoid the same pain. I’m not at the top of my game like Brian was when he made his leap, but I’m driven to get there, to climb some mountain of my own making. Yet, Brian’s story reminds me that the “top” isn’t always what we think. It’s not about accolades or wealth; it’s about alignment—living in a way that feels true to your soul.
I spend a lot of time designing my dream life. How do I want to spend my days? Who do I want to be? Calls with Brian are like a compass, pointing me back to what matters most. His generosity of spirit is unmatched. Whether it’s a heartfelt message or a social media comment bursting with love and energy, Brian pours himself into every interaction. It’s a masterclass in living with intention. His words aren’t just words—they’re an explosion of heart, a reminder that every moment is a chance to give fully.
Lessons from a Master
We can all learn from those who’ve walked before us. Brian’s life is a testament to the power of courage, love, and purpose. He shows us that true influence isn’t about status or wealth—it’s about how you make people feel, how you inspire them to live better, fuller lives. His story challenges me to ask: What am I chasing, and why? What would it look like to live with that kind of fearless clarity?
The greatest lesson Brian has taught me is simple: surround yourself with people who inspire you and love more. Find those who radiate love, who challenge you to think deeper, who make you want to be better. They’re the ones who will guide you, not with a flood of advice, but with a single, quiet truth that changes everything.
So, here’s my invitation to you: seek out your own Brians. Spend time with those who light a spark in your soul. Let their wisdom guide you toward a life that’s not just successful, but profoundly meaningful. Because in the end, it’s not about reaching the top—it’s about living with a heart wide open.
Connect... GordonBufton@Proton.me @GordonBufton