Metaphorically, I like to think when we are born we have lots of jigsaw puzzle pieces inside our bodies that must be put together to complete our souls, our atman. Some of our puzzles pieces are missing in the beginning and we have to find them. Others are just scattered and must be reconnected. By walking through life, we happen upon people and experiences that are the missing or disconnected pieces of our puzzles, the link to our souls. Matching puzzle pieces might be found hiking in the woods, climbing a tree or watching an osprey in flight. At the beach, it might be the sound of waves crashing on the shore or gazing at the sunset over the ocean. Other pieces might fit together during a long conversation with an old friend or a hug from someone who understands. More parts fit together in simple pleasures like the smell of freshly-mown grass, picking the first tomato of the season or seeing several deer in the yard.

Or the puzzle pieces might connect in more complex ways like learning a new language, finishing a marathon or writing a book. During rough times, someone or something could dismantle the puzzle and you have to start all over. It's a book you can pick up where you left off. It's not intended to be read straight through. I still have some missing pieces and so do you if you're reading this. One day my puzzle will be finished and yours will be too. Walk with me now.