Finding Meaning and Purpose - How Spirituality Will Change Your Life

It was a great honor to sit down with the award-winning documentary filmmaker, Neeraj Agnihotri, for an interview about the spiritual journey of my life. Just as his films reach a depth and thoughtfulness rarely seen on the big screen, the depth of his questions and his passion for creating a more beautiful world shine brightly through in this video.
Like so many people, I was spiritual before I knew what that word meant. Every single child has the same type of questions around the same age: what happens when we die, what is our purpose, and why are we here? We looked up at the stars and we felt the presence of awe, wonder and peace. Hopefully with this interview, we can dive deeper into these universal questions and touch that spiritual dimension within each of us.
00:00 What are some of your spiritual moments from childhood?
05:31How does religion help in spiritual development?
08:24 What was the first moment in your life when you were aware of awareness?
10:46 Can you talk about your experience getting into standup comedy?
14:26 When did you find out you were stressed but you did not know?
20:18 How was your experience quitting your job and selling all your possessions?
25:18 When did you find meaning and purpose in your life?
29:21 How does it feel right now knowing that you have changed the lives of at least 2 million people?
Discover the oneness of the universe in this award-winning spiritual documentary, Aloneness to Oneness, at • ALONENESS TO ONENESS -...
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I get so many questions from so many people all over the world on social media. Questions about things we all wonder and think about. But not everybody is on social media, so in my weekly “Path to Peace” newsletter, I try to answer every single question so that everyone can benefit from the wisdom and knowing that none of us are alone. Subscribe to the newsletter if you are spiritually curious and ponder the deep questions about life as well: www.EastWesticism.org/
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Music by Macaque Healing Music
/ @macaquehealing

[@jackiefindlay1264]

My heart is filled with gratitude for the journey you have made to bring you to a place where you are helping so many dear souls. Myself included! Blessings to all.🙏💙

[@JEFFQUICKLE9]

If you want to help yourself and others then why not send them to GOD'S words, Messages and Answers given to us in our day and time? Are you one of those who believe God spoke one time and will never again speak to the Human race? That God went silent hundreds of years ago? Do you also believe that Divine inspiration stoped hundreds of years ago? Why would it? Do you think that God cannot see the HUGE MESS that is the bible? How no person has ever understood it? The proof that no single person has ever understood it is the FACT that there are millions and millions of opinions about it.....Who has the right or correct opinion about that book? Do you know? Opinions are ideas and not Truth. Interpretations are opinions and nothing more. Can God see this? God has never stopped speaking to us ever. Divine inspiration has never stopped. Was the INTERNET inspired by God? Do you know? Does anyone know? We have all the answers from God on every subject.....of course....but we live in a World full of KNOW-IT-ALLS.....we have many millions of people walking around who feel they are qualified to speak for God on every subject. They feel qualified because they feel THEIR opinions about God are the RIGHT opinions. They will all tell you that God went silent....never to speak or inspire again. If YOU want to hear from God then run to the bookstore or Amazon and get your hands on the Conversations With God books which have sold many millions of copies all over the World. Especially read the book from God "Home With God In A Life That Never Ends" which is all about Death....Also the book from Jesus in His own words about His whole life....."JESUS AND MASTERSHIP".....if You read them.....let me know.....here.....

[@johnleebass]

Beautiful, raw interview, thank you. I knew in the 1st grade something was different, and that I wasn't going to fit in, and for over 40 years I struggled, resisted, relapsed a few times to drug, alcohol-- a recipe for disaster to get my thoughts to subside, to cope with what I endured professionally, eventhough I was spiritual, always a believer, I lost faith, didn't think such enlightenment was possible-- the hardest part was/is knowing there are so few of *us* tapped in, and without a firm grip, knowing who you are, not tapped into your inner being, that so few are able to break from the matrix, are unaware of our Gifts, *we* are viewed as weirdos, which made my struggle so exhausting, that I began a new path (5/2022), leading to my spiritual Awakening (5/2022), and also led me to your videos. Thank you. 💫🙏

[@deborahcarter4408]

I have an auto-immune disease, I can stay healthy if I'm unstressed. Sometimes in meditation, found myself, up walking around, back to the floor. Difficult at first, my animals and garden bring me peace. You are a blessing. I'm 65, I wish I would have, followed my heart, I am now and never felt this joyful in life, can't wait to see, what meditation will do. Thank-You

[@meetgwen]

As I arrive at the park amd remove my shows to ground on the earth - I go to my youtube and ask the divine to send me exactly the message I need to hear today. I had never before heard of you or this channel and this is what popped up this morning! I love, love, loved it so much. Grateful heart ❤

[@nannettegoldberg4700]

You are Definitely an Awakened Being.And a Light Worker..Welcome to The Awakened Ones . Namaste🙏🌟🌅

[@stevebonder3571]

I am currently reading your book, "Death, Life and Oneness" and really enjoying it. Keep sharing your wisdom with us. It's healping us all grow spiritually.

[@paddymush1]

I did not know of his book, thanks I will get it . Do you know where its available

[@TZVnt]

@@paddymush1 you should be able to find a link in the community part of his KZbin. He has posted it like a week ago or so. Enjoy reading :)

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Thanks for the interest. It's available on Amazon.

[@GaryAskwith1in5]

Thought I found the perfect video to share this with my girlfriend who I'm visiting today at a psychiatric facility she needs to hear it and she's happiest when in water so she could empathise with Todd, but then realised she'd probably smash her phone because of the background wind chime noise, they are a massive trigger for her provoking her to anger and violence!

[@brandonlee8558]

I love Todd. This guy (you.. if you’re reading this, Todd) are amazing, connected and a blessing to the earth.. but am I the only one who is/was super distracted by the wind chime/ noises in the background throughout this video? Great video still.. and I know I can be easily distracted… but the noises were fairly loud and distracting at times 😬 But I am still so thankful for this person and this video. Makes me feel less alone. Still so many good people out there.

[@spacthred6083]

"You are the hero of that story." Thank you so much

[@lindamcginnis5741]

Thank you for sharing, Todd. Your videos inspire me to get rid of un-needed stuff!

[@SondraHaley]

I know I didn’t stumble upon your channel by mistake, I was ready and needed to hear your insight and wisdom. I was ready and it all resonated with me, like you said “we already know.” However, hearing it spoken in such a calm manner, real and not scripted, a genuine sharing and conversation made this knowing even more real. The video, the impromptu presentation, the scenery, the instrumental music created a positive ambiance. Thank you for sharing. 🙏

[@JasonSmith-gx6hw]

I would like to say thank you for publishing this video. It found me today as I've been needing guidance on my journey and I am so very grateful for the experiences that you share. I woke up 8 months ago to find out that my journey had just begun... seeking guidance and understanding today your experiences were shown to me Thank you🙏

[@alone15151]

Taking a leap of faith can lead us to the best places in our life.

[@bettythompson7974]

I would like it if the background music in your videos was at a lower volume. I want to hear your voice more and the music quieter. I love listening to you.

[@kevinkemble3718]

“Completely engaged in something” …”the only time this voice takes a break.” I understand “putting things off to later.” …. “How to be present” “sit in that stillness” Thank you for the content.

[@londonirishfella9562]

So ordinary, so extraordinary. Todd Perelmuter, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you.

[@dimiseta8110]

I am so happy to have found you…at least here in youtube 😅🙏🏼🥰

[@surarnateli6462]

Breath of fresh air listening to you

[@Valerygallery]

You are truly a beautiful soul. So grateful I found you. 🙏❤

[@4YOUBYANGELICA]

I came across The Power of Now on cassette tapes. It is a classic for sure.

[@dianapaloma3102]

Medicine for the soul. I’m going to listen to this over and over. THANK YOU. You spoke to my heart and soul on sooooo many levels. ❤️🙏

[@bernietmusic]

Thank you for sharing your story, journey and wisdom. Im finding it very interesting and helpful in my own search for inner peace and understanding my purpose!

[@Christine-tj3vc]

Dear Todd, I am in a 12 step addiction program, where we are taught to practice spiritual principles in all our affairs, and it has been helpful in arresting some of my thinking. Lately, I have felt the need to further my spiritual development, and what I have found in listening to you, is that you give me a deeper understanding of mindfulness, gratitude, self awareness and love and compassion towards others. Thank you for the gift you share so generously with others, and you are certainly helping me.

[@susanswinny588]

I believe you're right, Todd. I walk in the morning often. If I'm up to walking briskly, my day gets off to a great start from deeper breathing naturally. I tend to notice to my breath throughout my day, which keeps me calmer and more present. I do mantra chanting as a way to breath deeply and lift my vibration when I'm indoors at home. Singing/chanting, especially when done in unison with others like singing in a choir or a church helps depression and stress, according to some studies. I'm 71 years old. I've considered retiring because my job is deadline driven and therefore stressful sometimes. But my job is a great teacher. It provides opportunities to be kind to others and receive kindness. It also provides opportunities to be in the flow state. So for now, it's good to work. If I could be a vlogger as teacher like you, I'd do that. But not sure I'd be as good as you at it. And yes, we are all connected in this universe.

[@mariaelbasotillo871]

Thank you Todd I am listening to you.. And I like it It sounds real to me🤗

[@sisters4ever989]

Love your expressions you give to us so peaceful and friendly.Love from Germany.

[@joankazanowski461]

❤hi it’s me, the woman who could not get her You Tube photo updated, well I did! I’m more calm at the end of this video than I was when I started it. I know you say we all have the ability to help others. I know I have helped others with my words at times also. Can you accept your charismatic self? It is so there. So please, as you said you hoped you would not find a cult when you got to India looking for the right Ashram, don’t change. Just keep talking.

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Thank you, Joan. That means the world ❤

[@matsumikoyamashi8095]

Thank you Todd. I am very happy and thankfull that you do what you do.

[@simoneevans6824]

Great video. So humble , and courageous to walk away from corporate life.

[@rosangeladeamo493]

Bless you enourmously! THANK YOU for being this huge light!!! Greetings from Brazil!❤

[@jamesburns2524]

Thank you Todd I really like your work.Where do you live it looks beautiful.

[@meditating-mind]

Beautiful interview that was very relatable ❤

[@zashluv]

I came across your first video last week, and now watching your videos has become a part of my daily routine. Achieving a constant state of a blank and empty mind, truly living in the present, is a dream I wish to attain. I started living in the present about six months ago. However, a friend noticed and mentioned that I was doing so, and since then, I have struggled to maintain that presence , it seems i could never go back to the same vibe

[@pamelagilmour8060]

Your message is soooo important! Too much “noise” out there. ❤️❤️

[@aerandir22]

In the first seconds I felt the influence of Eckart. Dass, Tolle, Jung and McKenna were good supports in an environment where this is almost relayed to superstition and voodoo. Namaste

[@sonjalillard114]

Was taking notes while listening to this video. So much wisdom in this interview.

[@marcijlo]

Todd I so enjoyed this interview! Thank you 🙏🏻

[@running4fun863]

This man is amazing, he gave up everything to teach us how to find inner peace. Thanks. But why , India , Tibet when it was .

[@socalbeauty1516]

Im watching this and every 5 minutes i get a commercial ad of iphones, cars, jewelry, cyber monday sales etc lol

[@nicolebrewer4959]

Thank you for sharing your story. I had my spiritual awakening about a yr ago, but had been questioning who am I and what is my purpose for a few years now. Left a very toxic relationship, sold all my belongings, left my home and went across the US more than once. However, I feel so lost in my journey. I don't know what my gifts are, I struggle quieting my mind in meditation. I struggle so much!!! 😩

[@JEFFQUICKLE9]

Are you one of those who believe God spoke one time and will never again speak to the Human race? That God went silent hundreds of years ago? Do you also believe that Divine inspiration stoped hundreds of years ago? Why would it? Do you think that God cannot see the HUGE MESS that is the bible? How no person has ever understood it? The proof that no single person has ever understood it is the FACT that there are millions and millions of opinions about it.....Who has the right or correct opinion about that book? Do you know? Opinions are ideas and not Truth. Interpretations are opinions and nothing more. Can God see this? God has never stopped speaking to us ever. Divine inspiration has never stopped. Was the INTERNET inspired by God? Do you know? Does anyone know? We have all the answers from God on every subject.....of course....but we live in a World full of KNOW-IT-ALLS.....we have many millions of people walking around who feel they are qualified to speak for God on every subject. They feel qualified because they feel THEIR opinions about God are the RIGHT opinions. They will all tell you that God went silent....never to speak or inspire again. If YOU want to hear from God then run to the bookstore or Amazon and get your hands on the Conversations With God books which have sold many millions of copies all over the World. Especially read the book from God "Home With God In A Life That Never Ends" which is all about Death....Also the book from Jesus in His own words about His whole life....."JESUS AND MASTERSHIP".....if You read them.....let me know.....here.....your struggle will be over.....

[@zeemc2751]

My comment disappeared, I will try to repost it.

[@poojaagnihotri4009]

Inspiring

[@denisehay8895]

I just love your videos Todd. You mention Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now. I think everyone can remember where they were when they first came across this life changing book. I bought my first copy in a bookshop in Totnes, England and it had a big effect on my life. Eckhart mentions a book called A Course in Miracles and that has also had a huge effect on my life. Deep gratitude to you. Have a blessed Christmas.

[@stevenwalsh731]

Can anyone please shed some light on my thinking here, if I have only become enlightened at around the age of 50 and my soul carries on after my body death, could it take another 50 years into my next body to reach the same point, thank you❤

[@MrWilsonCarter]

Every time I listen to you speak in your videos I am reminded that I need to trust harder in the universe. I discovered your channel a month or two ago and every time I see one it’s exactly what I need to hear. Thank you so much for doing this work and sharing your messages. Is there a way to get in contact with you? I smiled so hard when you said you gave everything away and bought a one way ticket to India to go within and learn what needs to be learned. And you’re always learning still. I really want to know where you went in India. I feel a similar calling

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Thank you. I am working on setting up some in-person events and will put updates in the newsletter at eastwesticism.org

[@aliciaseger6387]

Most amazing and beautiful experience of the reality you created freed you from this realm. You became sovereign and free in knowing the creator in claiming your purpose. Thank you for sharing your journey 💕

[@meditationtvbangla2745]

Gratitude! You made me cry, and now I know my journey too! Love!❤

[@jayneelisabet1159]

Dear Todd, I suffered from chronic asthma years ago, and would end up in urgencies every weekend, rushed there by my partner. After we separated, I had one attack, but this time I had to get myself to urgencies. I believe that I was healed, not only by the removal of the relationship stress and anxiety, but also by having to deal with the emergency myself, alone, which removed the "cry for help" component. Happily, my ex and I are best friends now. Thank you for your amazing work, you are helping me so much. ❤🙏

[@leenachatlani7099]

Beautiful interview

[@khylton8938]

Do you practice grounding? If so, I'd love to hear about your experience and/or thoughts on the topic. It has made a profound positive impact for me. Still in progress, always will be, but i find it a great way to truly connect and be in the present moment. I lost my daughter ( most heartwrenching and hardest to find purpose again as its an entire "new" lane of reality), my father was murdered 4 months prior (still no closure), and lost my brother (only sibling) ...all within 5yrs. And i am disabled. I am spiritual. Ive been grasping to learn higher awareness, however, to keep my sanity at bay. Much love and gratitude to you for sharing your experiences and wisdom. Much love to everyone listening here too. ❤

[@440SPN]

Sending you love and hugs 💕💐🎁💜❤️‍🩹

[@khylton8938]

@minimae6738 Thank you. That's very kind of you. 💞

[@dalrannoch]

Love the content of this. The wind chimes or whatever they are were so distracting, but ironically like those thoughts in our heads that distract us from life 😉

[@starwaters4287]

Amazing beautiful man 🙏

[@judestevens8193]

I appreciate you more than words can express and have shared you with many. Keep doing what you are doing as it helps the whole. I am greatful !

[@jayne1905]

I found your content this morning !! Oh my goodness !!!! Thankyou so much ❤

[@dianapaloma3102]

Thank you so much. Listening to you has helped me ground during a very challenging time in my life. I appreciate you. ❤️🙏

[@Magdalin7]

I m happy that I found this channel 🙏💙

[@hafizamacias3423]

Thanks for sharing your story of enlightenment

[@artimuddaiah9711]

Yeah. 🙋🙋🙋🙋🙋

[@viridianacarreon7203]

Wonderful!

[@pamelaforehan4249]

Thanks

[@Heart-Core]

♥️

[@Awaken_744]

U are my sign! Thank u!

[@samanthahawke1369]

Todd much gratitude fir sharing your spiritual awakening journey simplicity at its best, but nonetheless infinitely remarkeable❤

[@MacaqueHealing]

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@ranvijaysingh5002]

20:02 the background voice of sabjiwaala made me realized you are in India

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Hahaha, good ear.

[@annavespa4233]

@@ToddPerelmuter 🙏🌺🌟 do you live in India ? where, north, south ?

[@sanditeale3632]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@Gloryman11222]

Thanks!

[@hyperola5cats392]

🙏🏼💜🌸

[@marcduchamp5512]

The constant chime clanging is a bit distracting. Great serious talk BTW

[@Awaken_744]

Thank u! ❤

[@ChrisMcNeely]

You get it.

[@an-ic6gs]

A humble request from UK Please please please Please kindly don't add any other sound in your videos . the sound of the bell in the background disturbing me that i couldn't give you more time to listen . Hope you will consider as soon as possible Thanks

[@maryannestevenson5993]

Me too

[@1979vovan]

Look at it as a back pain during the meditation )

[@springwater9981]

I also found it difficult to try and not hear over the speaking

[@kaaalaaabaaalaaah]

It was very disturbing to hear the bells in the background

[@kajspice]

I think it is the wind chimes? Does the ambient music disturb as well?

[@440SPN]

Thank you you are a nice bridge troll !!! 🥰🌠💕

[@anadigregorio9206]

🙏🙏🙏

[@kristendawson273]

Do you offer retreats/ learning sessions?

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Not at the moment, but as soon I do, I would be sure to post about it

[@ElisPalmer]

🌟💚🌟

[@stephensweigart5338]

Those wood chimes are stressing me out

[@kennelson3848]

This is I.

[@tinaacey2856]

12:03

[@JoSpring]

Oh, I definitely know I'm stressed out. 😂

[@marshamclachlan4052]

😢 I tried to hit thumbs up but accidentally hit thumbs down. Ignore it!!! 😢

[@evanburke5460]

You hear this voice too chill dude?

[@mselbit]

Consciousness does have a source. The Torah makes that known. It's not the "universe." It's the G-D of Abraham.

[@cheeleechin7605]

I love chimes but the sounds clash with😂your talk here. It gave me a headache background sound. Sorry it was disturbing and couldn’t concentrate well your sharing.

[@gabriel-gc4uf]

Same here 😂

[@running4fun863]

I tried to find these places in India but found scary disgusting men . I would not recommend any women going there especially on their own. Sadu as they call these holi people are far from holi . I gave up everything and just live out of a nap sack in Canada in Banff , worked to feed myself but that about it . There are a lot of people there that live like this , no worldly possessions , just the beautiful mountains. A simple life.

[@waltergigandet6715]

Where did the food come from, in the forest? Or did you. Bring in food from society?

[@jenna2431]

New sub here back-watching. You never define spirituality. What you talk about is self-reflection of consciousness. That's still not "spirit" based. Tolle doesn't define it either. How does "stillness" transcend the physical world, as you put it? It doesn't. It may merely alter your focus. There are a lot of assertions made and then you move on to the next thing. No bueno.

[@gracebubulka5618]

What is that klattering!!!!

[@pamelaforehan4249]

Thanks

[@ToddPerelmuter]

Thanks so much for your generosity, Pamela 🙏

[@sadie4587]

❤️