Up: [[Eight Gates of Wisdom - Angeles Arrien]] Related: [[Contentment]] Created: 2026-02-27 ![[Gate - Natural.webp|300]] At this gate we find our inner sanctuary and the contentment, grace, and peace that resides there. #### The Task The task at this gate is to discover what makes us feel a sense of peace and contentment that is unrelated to action. Arrien focuses on being in nature as the best external expression of what we’re looking for at this gate. I agree, but find that some forms of meditative or [[Expressive Art]] making also achieves this purpose. #### The Challenge There are three challenges at this gate: 1) Slow down. 2) Learn the difference between loneliness and solitude. See [[Loneliness is Solitude with a Problem]]. 3) Regain a sense of humour in order to connect with joy. > [!Orbit] [[Angeles Arrien]] in *The Second Half of Life* > There are two things we can never do in the fast lane: we can neither deepen our experience nor integrate it, both essential tasks in the second half of life. #### A Practice or Three Spend time outdoors every day. Spend at least a half hour every day in silence. Notice and be appreciative for all that makes you happy and peaceful. #### The Gift The gift of this gate is a deep and abiding [[Contentment]]. In many spiritual traditions, this is synonymous with grace. #### Prompts to Consider - What is your current relationship to nature? What aspects of nature do you love the most? - What is your relationship to silence, solitude, stillness, and simplicity? Where do you find solace and comfort? - Where do you find joy? - What takes you away from living a more balanced and fulfilling life? - Who or what are your current sources of happiness, satisfaction, contentment, and peace? > [!user] [[Angeles Arrien]] in *The Second Half of Life: Opening the eight gates of wisdom* > The Natural Gate: The Presence of Grace: Happiness, Satisfaction and Peace