Awakening has the potential to unfold unexpectedly, occurring at any juncture in one's life. Paul Muller-Ortega recounts his initial glimpse of awakening at the tender age of 9, followed by years of seeking, and a serendipitous encounter with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi when he was in college. This encounter steered him onto the path of Kashmir Shaivism, where he delved into profound meditation techniques adapted from the Yoga Sutras to be more compatible with Householder life. Through his journey, he learned how to transcend contraction and limitations in order to live a more embodied and fulfilled life.