Inner Flames
The inner flames are a reminder of the eternal energy within each of us.
Life's greatest gifts are found internally, not externally. Thoughts create feelings, feelings generate emotions, emotions ignite action, and action creates reality.
By embracing adversity, you can cultivate an independent inner world that will manifest into the external world. With greater understanding, you will learn to handle your inner flames and create a life authentic to you.
The first flame is fire itself and signifies willpower, determination, and experiences.
The trials and tribulations of life are what fuels our inner fire. Consequently, some have higher flames than burn hotter than others and tend to be more driven. When you overcome life's obstacles, you learn more about yourself and what you're capable of achieving.
We can harness our inner fire by combining natural instincts with control. Learn to feel the energy that flows inside you. Understand that vitality comes from within and is readily available at any moment.
Nothing advances you more in life than dealing with adversity head-on. We trade discomfort for knowledge, flexibility, and a better understanding of ourselves. Ultimately, our experiences shape us into who we are today.
"A blazing fire makes flame and brightness out of everything that is thrown into it."
— Marcus Aurelius
The second middle flame represents the yin yang, symbolizing perception, duality, and mindset.
When we accept life for what it is, an objective balance, adapting to its everlasting interchanges becomes easier. Instead of trying to force things to happen, go with the flow, and let life work for you. Doing so allows you to find serenity during uncertainty.
Valuing duality is understanding there's always a valuable lesson hidden in every experience. Life happens, but you are in control of your thoughts and actions. It's your responsibility to seek out the positive within the negative and make the most out of life.
If thoughts create reality, then your mindset is your biggest asset. Mindset is a recollection of your past that comprises your present morals, values, and identity. It's a double-edged sword that makes or breaks a person. Fortunately, It's never too late to reinvent yourself by establishing an intention of who you want to become and cultivating the corresponding mindset of that person.
"You can decide to start creating your future at any moment. Choice is the single element that separates one from their true potential."
— Dan Stowell
The third outer flame signifies Stoicism, which embodies self-mastery, discipline, and growth.
A fundamental principle of Stoicism is distinguishing and separating what's in your control from what isn't. Things beyond your control are then discarded so you can prioritize on what ultimately matters. Sometimes, doing less is more.
The ancient Stoics believed that virtue is achieved by applying yourself to do the right thing. Examples of doing the right thing include choosing for respect above power, fulfillment over satisfaction, love over lust, kindness over hatred, or empathy over judgment. Just do the right thing, and the rest will take care of itself.
Growth is consistently refining intention into action to become the best version of yourself. It's a transitional period where your new identity blossoms into full form. Shed off your persona of the past and immerse yourself in the eternal now.
Experiences + Mindset = Growth
Harnessing your inner flames is a way of life.
Time doesn't slow down for anyone, but you can mentally program yourself the hardware to make the most out of life. When applied with mindset, experiences carve your path by revealing more of yourself. With disciplinary action, you can transform pain into personal power.
The only person holding you back from living a free life is yourself. Experiences can't shake the unshakeable, and external events can't afflict internal peace.