Nirmala Nair’s presentation, Follow Your Soul’s Calling, encourages individuals to break free from societal expectations and listen to their inner voice. She emphasizes that every person has a unique purpose in life, but external influences—such as societal norms, parental guidance, and formal education—often drown out this inner calling. The material world creates distractions, making it difficult to stay aligned with one’s true path. However, she asserts that deep within, everyone possesses a sense of knowing, and the key challenge is learning to tune in to it despite the overwhelming noise of the world.
She critiques what she calls 'Project Modernity,' which prioritizes logic and linear thinking, often leading people to make fear-based decisions rather than following their soul’s calling. Fear of failure, financial concerns, and the pressure to conform keep individuals trapped in mundane routines that drain their spirit. Reflecting on her own journey, Nair shares how she once tried to fit into societal expectations but felt deeply disconnected from herself. However, life has a way of redirecting people back to their true path. By paying attention to both the inner voice and external signs, she found a rhythm that allowed her to move in harmony with her soul’s purpose.
Her early spiritual experiences in the foothills of the Himalayas profoundly shaped her perspective. Growing up surrounded by the richness of nature instilled in her a deep sense of abundance and wholeness. She describes how being immersed in such an environment fosters a connection to something greater, making material desires feel unnecessary. This feeling of being complete, she believes, is what allows a person to truly follow their calling. She compares life to a seed waiting for the right conditions to sprout—when nurtured with love and light, it flourishes into its intended form.
As she approaches seventy, Nair reflects on life’s impermanence with acceptance and peace. She sees human existence as part of a continuous cycle, emphasizing that life is not a one-way journey but a temporary stay in the grand scheme of the universe. She reminds her granddaughter that they are both made of stardust and will one day return to it. This perspective allows her to live fully and without fear, embracing each moment as part of the greater cosmic dance. In essence, her message is clear: embrace your soul’s calling, live authentically, and recognize your deep connection to the universe.
Journal and reflect on the following
Nirmala emphasizes the importance of listening to your soul’s calling rather than conforming to societal expectations. What are some external pressures in your life that might be pulling you away from your true path?
She describes fear—especially fear of failure—as a major obstacle to following one’s purpose. How has fear influenced your decisions in the past, and how can you start making choices based on trust rather than fear?
Nirmala shares how growing up in nature gave her a deep sense of abundance and fulfillment. What environments or experiences make you feel most connected to yourself and the world around you?
She compares life to a seed that needs the right conditions to grow. What are some 'nurturing conditions' you need in your life right now to help you grow into your fullest potential?
Nirmala talks about balancing both the inner voice and external signs when making decisions. How do you personally recognize when something feels 'right' or 'wrong' for you? Do you listen more to logic or intuition?
She views life and death as part of a greater cosmic cycle, reminding us that we are all made of stardust. How does this perspective on impermanence change the way you think about your own life and priorities?
Nirmala describes life as a dance between the inner and outer world. How can you create more harmony between your true self and the external demands of everyday life?
Discuss
Song - Brave
Final Prayer
Divine Creator, guide us to listen to the quiet calling of our souls amidst the noise of the world. Help us to trust the path You have set before us, free from fear and the need for approval. May we find the courage to embrace our unique purpose, moving in harmony with the rhythm of life. Teach us to see abundance not in possessions, but in the beauty of existence, the love we give, and the light we carry within. Remind us that we are part of something greater, woven into the vastness of creation, and that our journey—like the stars—shines with divine purpose. Amen.
