I’ve heard it said that each of us comes to Earth with a purpose, with something to learn and something to contribute. Certainly, we all learn from life as we live it, but the concept of life as a kind of spiritual classroom has always fascinated me. Think about it: if this idea is true, it implies that we exist before we come into the world and that we will exist when we leave it; it implies that we come into this world with a deficit and an intention to address that deficit; and it implies that there is a larger scheme to life than what we can know or experience.

I’m not sure whether I agree with this life-as-school theory, only bringing it up because I think it’s worth exploring and discussing. Our beliefs and thoughts around this subject reveal a lot about our basic frame of reference. After all, the metaphors we hold are the lens through which we see the world.

Journaling prompts:

Do you believe that some part of you exists before and after life? Yes or no, what is the origin of your point of view? Do you think a primary purpose of life is to educate our souls? Why or why not? Whether or not you agree with the concept, use your imagination to answer these next prompts.

If life is a school …

What is the purpose of this school?

Is it graded or pass-fail? What reasons do you have for your answer?

Is it structured or unstructured?

What are your major subjects and life lessons?

We all have people in our lives who function as teachers and mentors. Who are yours, and how have they contributed to your life?

How do you feel about this topic, and what other metaphors do you hold that help you understand life?

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