Be. Still.

If I could give my younger self advice, impart to my son something to enrich his life, or offer humanity a morsel of wisdom as a foundational guide for better living, it would be these two words: Be. Still.

I’ve punctuated it this way intentionally. The purpose is to evoke three different meanings that together compose an overarching message. While each interpretation offers a powerful morsel of clarity in a never-ending world of chaos, combined they form a compact philosophy for better living.

Be still. Perhaps the most obvious interpretation of the phrase is the notion of serenity and mindfulness. There are many philosophical, dogmatic, religious, and spiritual pathways that lead to the present moment. Most seekers agree that embracing the now is key to a more joyful life experience. Living in the present can sound cliché if you haven’t tasted the actual, palpable power it holds. This shit is real.

My practice of Vipassana meditation teaches that our suffering is derived from factors outside this moment—from a memory of the past or projected imaginary future we fixate on with cravings and aversions. We dwell in fear of negative outcomes and longing for positive emotions in these places, torturing ourselves with non-existent fantasies. The only reality that exists is here, now.

So, to me, the simple concept of “be still” is a reminder that when I calm my mind and exist solely in this moment, I can truly experience reality and the potential for genuine ecstasy.

Be, still. I am a unique being on this planet with a head full of thoughts, a heart full of love, and a character that’s constantly evolving—seeking, growing, stumbling. Those who knew me when I was young helped shape the impression that I was hyperactive, obnoxious, hard-headed, and impulsive. This was my ADHD-fueled identity until I learned that I get to write my own story.

In early adulthood, I took control of the narrative and channeled the hyperactive child within to become a person of substance: well-read, well-traveled, accomplished, and passionate about maximizing my time here. I began writing my own story and, perhaps for the first time, I actually liked myself. Yet, still I battled with my past to ensure I did these things for myself, rather than because I cared about what others thought.

This is one of the greatest hurdles to overcome for many in life. Relinquishing the control of others’ opinions is true freedom. Embracing yourself exactly as you are is the ultimate act of self-love. Like anyone, it’s a never-ending assignment for me. And here is where the idea of “be, still” serves.

“Be, still” is a reminder to remain authentic, always. No matter what life delivers, loving oneself is a constant that provides grounding and fulfillment. We’re not swayed by others’ judgments; we don’t act to appease. Rather, we live solely for ourselves, as ourselves.

Be still, my heart. The phrase was first coined by playwright William Mountfort in his obscure play Zelmane. Since then, it has been adopted into common usage to suggest moments in life that inspire passion, awe, and excitement. Need I say more?

I am addicted to awe. I’ve spent a lifetime pushing the boundaries of the commonplace. I’ve taken risks in business, leaps of love, climbed mountains, forded rivers, and delved into the depths of nature and cultures far and wide. My happy place.

Just last month, I found myself in the countryside of Tunisia seeking ruins of Roman villas and townships. It was late October, which meant I had the sites to myself. As an avid fan of all things Roman, this inherently tickled my fancy.

And then, I stumbled upon a subterranean villa. It was an incredibly well-preserved slice of Roman life, barely changed in the 2,000 years it has sat vacant. Descending the stairway, my heart beat intensely as the afternoon sun poked through, illuminating the courtyard. I moved from room to room, stepping on ornate mosaics in pristine condition. I was lost in imagining life in ways I never had before. I was moved to an experience of awe that has come to define my interpretation of the good moments.

And the point isn’t just that we can experience these moments; it’s that we owe it to ourselves to seek them—constantly, eternally, until we draw our final breath. Everyone is capable of summoning passion. If there’s any true purpose I’ve discovered in life, it is to experience awe. Be still my heart.

Tomorrow I am getting “Be. Still.” tattooed on my arm. I’ve been meaning to do it for many years and found myself living next to a talented artist in a little town in the Salento region of Puglia the past few weeks. It seemed appropriate. Inking this permanently on my body does nothing to change the way I show up in the world. But, if I allow it, it can serve as a reminder to live in the moment, authentically, and with inspired passion for all of my days.

And just maybe I can be a reminder of these things for you too.

That moment in Tunisia