Everything will line up perfectly when knowing and living the

"Everything will line up perfectly when knowing and living the truth becomes more important than looking good." These words from Alan Cohen speak to a profound shift in what truly matters in life. In a world obsessed with appearance, status, and the superficial, Cohen reminds us that the truth—both knowing it and living it—is the foundation upon which true alignment in life is built. Too often, we place our focus on how we are perceived, on the outward image we project, rather than on the inner truth of who we are and the lives we are actually living. In the pursuit of this superficial perfection, we lose touch with the core of our being, and in doing so, we create dissonance in our lives. Cohen’s insight calls for a deep shift in perspective—one that places truth above illusion, and authenticity above pretense.

The ancient philosophers, such as Socrates and Plato, placed great value on the pursuit of truth. For them, the quest for knowledge and wisdom was not merely intellectual but spiritual. Socrates famously said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” In his time, he challenged those around him to look beyond their external appearance and focus on understanding their inner truths, their beliefs, and the nature of reality itself. Socrates saw that true wisdom came not from outward appearances or societal approval, but from an honest and unflinching examination of one’s soul and actions. This is a deeply transformative idea, for when we focus on living truthfully, everything else—our relationships, our work, our purpose—begins to fall into place.

Consider the life of Alexander the Great, whose external accomplishments were legendary, yet his life was often marked by inner turmoil and moral contradiction. Alexander, though regarded as a hero by many, was driven by a thirst for glory and conquest, seeking to leave behind a legacy of power and admiration. His deeds were lauded, but beneath the external victories, he struggled with his own truth—his identity, his values, and the cost of his actions. In the end, Alexander's inability to reconcile his external success with his inner truth led to instability within his empire and his personal life. The lesson here is that no amount of external success or prestige can truly align one’s life unless it is grounded in authenticity and an unwavering commitment to truth.

In more recent history, Mahatma Gandhi stands as an example of someone whose life perfectly aligns with Cohen’s philosophy. Gandhi’s personal and public life were rooted in truth—not just in his political movements but in the very way he lived. He practiced what he preached, and his simplicity, integrity, and commitment to non-violence became the foundation of his strength. Gandhi did not seek fame or glory; rather, he sought to embody the truth of his beliefs in every action, and in doing so, he changed the course of history. Gandhi’s life shows us that when we prioritize truth over the need to “look good” or gain approval, life begins to align. It becomes purposeful, authentic, and impactful—not because of how others perceive us, but because we are rooted in something much deeper.

Cohen’s message also speaks to the way we live our daily lives. How often do we find ourselves caught in the web of impression, trying to look good to others, rather than focusing on the deeper truths that drive us? We may present ourselves as confident, accomplished, or fulfilled, but if those images are not supported by the truth of our inner lives, there will always be a gap between our outward persona and our actual experience. This creates discomfort, incongruence, and a sense of emptiness that nothing external can fill. Knowing and living the truth—not just pretending to be what others expect—brings alignment, peace, and a sense of genuine wholeness.

The lesson we take from Cohen's words is one of profound empowerment. To live a life of alignment, we must shift our priorities from what others think of us to what we truly believe and practice. This requires self-awareness, courage, and a willingness to embrace the truth of who we are, even if it means letting go of societal expectations or superficial pursuits. Truth, once fully embraced, has the power to clarify our path, to illuminate our purpose, and to give us a deep sense of fulfillment that cannot be found in the pursuit of external validation.

In our own lives, let us strive to ask ourselves: Are we living in alignment with our truth, or are we trying to be something we are not? Let us reflect on whether our actions and thoughts are driven by authenticity or by the desire to look good in the eyes of others. Living the truth does not always mean taking the easier path; it often requires great courage, honesty, and sometimes even sacrifice. Yet, when we choose truth over appearance, we find that everything falls into place. We can let go of the need to prove ourselves and instead focus on becoming the most authentic versions of ourselves. In doing so, we will live not just for the approval of others, but in alignment with the highest truth of who we are. Truth, in the end, will always bring us closer to the life we are meant to lead.